The American Red Cross encourages eligible donors to help ensure a stable and
diverse blood supply by giving blood in honor of National Sickle Cell Awareness
Month this September.
Sickle cell disease is an inherited disease that causes red blood cells to form an
abnormal crescent shape. It is estimated that sickle cell disease affects as many as
100,000 people in the U.S. Many of these patients face a lifetime of blood
transfusions to help reduce the risk of stroke, damage to major organs and other
complications that can arise as a result of sickle cell disease.
Since blood from donors of the same ethnic background as the recipient is less likely
to cause complications, the Red Cross must maintain a diverse blood supply. This is
particularly important for patients like those with sickle cell disease who may
require regular blood transfusions.
To help increase donations during the month of September, those who come out to
donate blood or platelets throughout the month will receive a coupon by email for a
free haircut at participating Sport Clips locations.
For more information or to make an appointment to donate blood, visit
redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS.
Donate in Tryon on Sept. 15 from 12:30 – 5 p.m. at Polk Community, First
Baptist Church 125 Pacolet St.
-article submitted by Natividad Lewis