Throughout the pandemic, there was a dire need for blood. Is this still the case? 

We are always in need of blood. During the summer months, donations tend to decrease and emergencies increase. 

Why is there a need for blood for patients with sickle cell? 

In the U.S, approximately 100,000 people live daily with sickle cell disease. (Sickle cell disease is an inherited red blood cell disease that can cause pain and other health problems. Blood transfusions can help prevent stroke and anemia in sickle cell patients.) Patients with the disease use blood donations as a method of treatment to manage their illness. For example, my 12-year-old son with sickle cell disease has needed units of blood to help him get through some of his most critical moments.

Sickle cell disproportionately affects Black people, and they make up the smallest percentage of donors. We are working to encourage more people of color to donate. It is important to have a diverse donor pool because 1 in 3 Black people are a match for a patient with sickle cell. Patients with sickle cell need a certain type of blood. We have grown first-time donors more than 60 percent in recent years through our sickle cell initiative. 

Has anything changed with blood donation recently? 

The Red Cross has lifted some of its restrictions. Some of the policies around certain populations have changed. I would encourage anyone who may have been told that he or she is ineligible to donate to visit our website and check his or her eligibility again. 

What do you say to people who are unsure about donating blood? 

One of the common things we hear is that people are afraid of needles, so they don’t donate. But it can be more comfortable to donate with a friend. I also encourage donors to communicate your fears to our team. We often speak with first-time donors at drives, and people always comment on how easy it is to give blood. Our dedicated staff make the process smooth. Education is key. A well-informed donor makes for a good donor. Think about those who are on the receiving end. Think about the lives you are helping to save. Don’t let the fear of the unknown keep you from saving lives. 

Are there other things the Red Cross does? 

We have different lines of services, not just blood donations. We offer services to the armed forces and for disaster relief. Our philanthropic efforts are one of the main things people know us for. We also have a sound alarm project that focuses on installing free smoke detectors to make homes safer. 

How can people help the Red Cross aside from blood donations? 

We have volunteer opportunities. People can also support the Red Cross through financial donations. 

How does BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina support the Red Cross? 

BlueCross is one of our premier partners. The company supports us in such a dynamic way. It is not only a partner when it comes to supporting our sickle cell initiative, blood donations and hosting blood drives, but in terms of our humanitarian services, it’s one of our largest philanthropic partners. 

BlueCross hosts Red Cross blood drives at corporate locations throughout the year. Employees are encouraged to give blood through companywide programs. 

To learn more and find out where you can donate, visit the Red Cross website.

The American Red Cross is an independent organization that offers health information you may find helpful. 

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