Sickle cell disease is a lifelong condition that affects individuals and families every single day. September is National Sickle Cell Awareness Month—a time to shine a light on the strength of the sickle cell community, raise awareness, fund research, and promote better treatments. By donating blood through The Kindest Red, you provide hope and support that lasts far beyond September.

Blood donors who are Black or of African ancestry play a critical role in helping people with sickle cell disease, the most common genetic blood disease in the U.S. People living with sickle cell disease may rely on regular blood transfusions throughout their lives. The blood they receive must be the most compatible match possible, from someone of the same race or similar ethnicity.

Today, there aren’t enough blood donors to meet this urgent need. By donating blood, you can make a difference in the life of a person with sickle cell disease.

What if I have sickle cell trait? By donating blood, you can make a difference in the lives of moms with complicated childbirths, people fighting cancer, accident or trauma victims being raced to emergency rooms, and many more.