Just three days after she was born, tiny Mariah Roberts was in a fight for her life.
Mariah was diagnosed with sickle cell disease, an inherited blood disorder predominantly found in people of African descent that afflicts approximately 100,000 Americans.
Sickle cell disease is caused by a blood protein that creates abnormal red blood cells. While normal cells are disc-shaped, abnormal cells are sickle-shaped and carry less oxygen, interrupt healthy blood flow, and lead to tissue and organ damage and potentially premature death.
Immediately, Mariah received two blood transfusions that eased her pain and cleared up her complications. Her parents, Chris and Tamara, who were dedicated blood donors prior to Mariah’s birth, are now spreading the word about the importance of blood donation, especially in the African-American community.
“It’s our duty to donate blood,” says Mariah’s mom, Tamara. “We take it upon ourselves that somebody helped our daughter, so now we do it in return.”
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.
