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September 3, 2024
September is Sickle Cell Awareness Month. Sickle Cell Disease is an inherited blood disorder in which red blood cells may become sickle-shaped and harden. SCD contributes to many other health issues, including kidney disease and stroke. As of now, there is no universal cure. People with Sickle Cell Disease may need regular blood transfusions to avoid medical crises. The City and the American Red Cross are supporting Sickle Cell patients with blood drives open to the public. In mid-September, City Council will also host a Sickle Cell Awareness Illumination Ceremony.
Blood Drive Date and Location:
Today
11:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Wolfe Park
105 Park Dr.
Media Note: Councilmember Nick Bankston will donate blood today at 3:15. He will be available for interviews on Sickle Cell Awareness Month until 4:30.
Tuesday, September 10
9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Central Ohio Agency on Aging (COAAA)
3776 S. High St.
Sickle Cell Awareness City Hall Illumination
Monday, September 16
At approximately 7:30 PM, following the adjournment of the City Council Meeting
City Hall - Marconi Blvd. side
The Red Cross is currently screening donations from first-time donors who self-identified as African American, Black, or multiracial for Hemoglobin S, a key indicator of sickle cell trait, which may provide donors with valuable health insights. This screening will be part of the blood donation testing process. In addition, it can help the Red Cross identify compatible blood types more quickly to help sickle cell patients. Those opting to give blood will receive a Red Cross raglan shirt, while supplies last.
Donors can view their results via the Blood Donor App or by logging into their blood donor account at RedCrossBlood.org approximately two weeks after their donation. If donors have questions about their results, they are encouraged to visit with their healthcare provider.
For more information and to ask questions, contact Kristina Larkin at kristina.larkin@redcross.org. To schedule an appointment, click the button below and search for the above dates in this area.
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