The event is taking Place Sunday, January 7, 2024 at 2:00 pm at the Nelson Heritage Center.
The Nelson County Heritage Center and your American Red Cross are partnering together to host two important community Sickle Cell events January 2024. In the United States, an estimated 100,000 people of various racial and ethnic backgrounds have sickle cell disease, with the majority being of African descent. Blood from people of the same race or similar ethnicity is important in ensuring the best transfusion results, with the least potential reaction.
Sunday, January 7, 2024, 2:00 p.m. - "Sickle Cell Disase - Why my blood matters" presented by Alexis Innis, American Red Cross, Central Virginia, Blood Donor Manager. Did you know Sickle cell disease affects 1 out of every 365 Black or African American births, or people with sickle cell disease may need as many as 100 units of blood each year? Learn how your blood donations could help alleviate the symptoms of someone living with sickle cell disease, or even help save their life.
This event is open to all and everyone who attends will benefit from learning more about the impacts of Sickle Cell disease on those who live with the pain, and hope that the blood they need to ease that pain, is there, when they need it. Light afternoon snacks, sandwiches, fruit, vegetable tray, assorted sweets and beverages will be provided for attendees. Please RSVP to Alexis Innis alexis.innis@redcross.org. by no later than Friday, January 5, 2024, if you are able to join us. (Event Flyer Attached - Please Share Broadly)
Saturday, January 20, 2024, The Nelson Heritage Center and your American Red Cross present the Martin Luther King, Jr., weekend of celebration and service Sickle Cell - Blood Drive from 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Are You Ready To Give Blood? Your blood donation could be what patients with sickle cell disease need to treat their condition. Blood donation is essential in ensuring the health of our communities. Reserve your appointment at www.redcrossblood.org by using Sponsor Code: NHC Or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
All donors who come to give blood will receive a $20 Amazon.com Gift Card*, by email courtesy of our partners at Amazon. Donors will also have delicious treats and soft beverages to enjoy during their visit. (Event Flyer Attached - Please Share Broadly)