Darryll Fortune first began donating blood in the ‘90s, when the company he worked for turned blood donation into a friendly competition among departments. “The first time I donated, I was like, ‘Oh, that’s it?’ It’s just a quick poke,” he says. “I’ve been a regular donor ever since.” Now, Darryll and his wife donate at blood drives at their church and workplaces, always keeping in mind the constant need for blood.
“I’ve been in enough hospitals to know that there’s always a need for blood,” Darryll says. “It’s inevitable that someone close to you, friend or family, will need a blood transfusion. Why not donate?”
Darryll is also passionate about encouraging members of the African American community to donate blood for patients suffering from sickle cell disease and other illnesses. “The African American community particularly needs blood donors,” he says. “Our community aren’t regular donors, and we should be.”
“I donate because I know there is a need!” he adds. “Doesn’t matter who you are or why you need it, but if I can’t take 30 minutes out of my day to do this, then I can’t earnestly talk about giving back, humanity and doing good.”
Your Blood Can Help Someone Thrive
For many people living with sickle cell disease, donated blood is more than a treatment. It can mean more time at home with family, more days at school or work, and more opportunities to enjoy the moments that make life meaningful.
People with sickle cell disease need blood transfusions throughout their lives. Closely matched blood can help make those transfusions safer and more effective. That is why donors from every background are needed, and why African American donors can play an especially meaningful role. Certain blood characteristics that can be important for people with sickle cell disease are more commonly found in donors with shared ancestry.
When you donate blood with Versiti, your gift may directly support someone living with sickle cell disease or another patient who depends on donated blood. You become part of a community of care helping people feel stronger, stay healthier and live fuller lives.
Schedule an appointment today. Your blood could be the match someone has been waiting for.
