When she was two years old, Shanice was diagnosed with sickle cell disease, a painful disorder which caused her to miss out on the experiences most kids take for granted.
“I pretty much lived in the hospital during my entire childhood,” says Shanice.
As a young adult, Shanice became a patient of BCW Medical Director Dr. Josh Field and began receiving blood transfusions every four to six weeks. These treatments eased her pain, allowed her to graduate high school and work part-time as she goes to nursing school.
“Now, I know how to better control my disease,” says Shanice. “Thanks to these treatments, I can live a normal life.”
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.
