Sickle cell disease is an inherited red blood cell disorder that predominately affects people of color, and it occurs in about one in 13 African American babies, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

“Because pain can sort of come upon them and can be severe, it’s not uncommon for some of our patients to be admitted to the hospital for more intense management,” said Dr. Suzie Noronha, director of the Pediatrics Sickle Cell Program at Golisano Children’s Hospital.

For some patients, one form of management may include blood transfusions to help reduce the risk of severe complications. This is why the American Red Cross of Rochester holds quarterly blood drives specifically to help individuals with sickle cell disease. 

“What we have been focusing on is providing more education and recruitment in the black community to help increase our blood supply,” said Debra Dunn, district manager for The American Red Cross of Rochester.

The American Red Cross of Rochester is using the drive to emphasize the importance of having donors of all races and ethnicities, as many people of color have distinct markers on their red blood cells that are ideal for helping patients with sickle cell. 

“And with that match, we are able to match specifically to a sickle cell patient for a transfusion,” Dunn said.

It’s a cause that, for some donors, hits closer to home.

“Just growing up I remember playing Pop Warner football and you know losing my quarterback and wondering what was going on and then finding out later on that he could no longer play football because he was in crisis with Sickle Cell,” said Demond Meeks, State Assemblyman for the 137th Assembly District.

“I know that I’m lucky enough to not be affected by Sickle Cell so it feels good to give back,” said donor Diatonique Fain.

It also provides the opportunity for donors to educate themselves 

“Often people aren’t educated on this,” Meeks said. “I didn’t actually know my blood type until I started donating blood.”

In turn, the events hope to help spread awareness to educate others.

“Take time to educate yourself on Sickle Cell,” said Meeks. “You know, it’s one thing to donate blood, and it’s another thing to be a bit more educated on the effects of sickle cell, who does it affect and how it can affect an individual.”