This September, give blood for local patients fighting cancer and sickle cell disease

September is dedicated to raising awareness of several serious diseases, including sickle cell disease and childhood cancer. For patients in Greater Cincinnati fighting these diseases, awareness is only part of the equation. They also need lifesaving blood products.

Hoxworth Blood Center, University of Cincinnati, is encouraging eligible donors to give blood this month in honor of patients battling sickle cell disease and cancer. Blood cannot be manufactured, and patients undergoing treatment may depend on transfusions as part of their care.

"September gives us an opportunity to shine a light on patients who are fighting these diseases, but we also want people to understand that there is something tangible they can do to help," said David Oh, MD, Hoxworth Blood Center director. "When you donate blood with Hoxworth, you are helping provide lifesaving blood products to patients right here in our community."

Helping patients with sickle cell disease

September is Sickle Cell Awareness Month, a time to increase understanding of sickle cell disease and the challenges people in the Tristate living with the condition face, like Carla Howard.

Sickle cell disease is an inherited blood disorder that causes the body to produce abnormal hemoglobin. This abnormal hemoglobin causes red blood cells to become rigid and sickle-shaped, which can block blood flow and lead to severe pain, anemia, organ damage and other serious complications.

For some patients with sickle cell disease, regular blood transfusions are an important part of treatment. Finding closely matched blood is especially important for patients who require ongoing transfusions. Blood donors of African descent are more likely to have red blood cell characteristics that closely match those of many patients with sickle cell disease, making their donations particularly valuable.

More than 350 people in Greater Cincinnati live with sickle cell disease. Hoxworth encourages eligible donors, especially those of African descent, to consider donating blood to help patients with sickle cell disease in the local community.

Donate Sunday at the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center

Hoxworth is giving the community an opportunity to turn awareness into action with a special blood drive from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. this Sunday, Sept. 20, at the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, 50 East Freedom Way, Cincinnati, OH 45202.

Eligible donors are encouraged to schedule an appointment or walk in to donate. You can schedule your appointment using this link. Every donation can help multiple patients, including those receiving treatment for cancer, sickle cell disease and other serious medical conditions.

Blood donations help kids fighting cancer

September is also Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, bringing attention to children and families affected by cancer and the ongoing need for research and treatment.

Blood transfusions can be an important part of cancer treatment, especially for pediatric patients. According to America's Blood Centers, cancer patients account for about 25% of the blood supply.

For children undergoing cancer treatment, like Everly, a blood donor can provide something that cannot be manufactured or replaced: a readily available supply of blood when it is needed.

You can save local lives this month

"This month, we're asking our community to remember that behind every diagnosis is a patient and a family who need our support," said Oh. "One blood donation is a simple way to make a lifesaving difference for someone fighting for their health right here at home."

You can schedule your lifesaving donation at a mobile drive or Neighborhood Donor Center near you. Find one that works for you here and become a Hoxworth Hero now.

About Hoxworth Blood Center

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