Stand for Sickle Cell Campaign: Main

Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) is an inherited red-blood cell disorder that results in stiff, distorted red blood cells in the body. These cells can constrict small blood vessels and cause various other issues, including acute anemia, tissue and organ damage, pain, and possible strokes. SCD affects more than 100,000 people in the United States; however, there is no active cure for this life-threatening disease.

However, what can help those with SCD are blood transfusions, which can allow for the alleviation of their symptoms, potentially even saving their lives. Furthermore, bone marrow and stem cell transplants can be life-saving for those who have been impacted greatly from this disease, allowing for them to live a life that consists of opportunity.

Even though this can be a saving grace to many patients, there is a large population that cannot afford the expenses of these treatments, and therefore cannot receive the vital transfusions and transplants they need to survive and live without being in constant pain. People with SCD may need as much as 100 units of blood per year, and this may not be affordable for themselves and their families.

As the Youth Philanthropy Committee of Red Cross North Texas, we are fundraising to bring patients the resources they may need for these life-saving treatments. With your donation—even if it’s just five dollars—you have the opportunity to bring a necessary transplant or transfusion that can be what gives an SCD patient the chance to live.

Disclaimer: Although the DFW Philanthropy Committee is promoting the Red Cross's role in the Stand for Sickle Cell Fundraiser, donations will be directly transferred to the American Red Cross general fund.