According to the SCDAA, African American blood donors provide blood with unique antigens that is vital for people battling sickle cell and other life-threatening diseases. For patients requiring frequent transfusions, it’s best for them to receive blood that closely matches their own.
Singer AJ Green, spokesperson for the 3 Lives campaign, has been battling sickle cell disease for most of his life. His treatment includes monthly blood transfusions.
“My goal is to get more people of color to become regular blood donors,” said Green. “Minority donors allow me and other sickle cell patients to manage our disease and live our lives.”
Important tips for blood donors
About 10% of people attending a blood drive will not be able to donate because their hemoglobin levels are too low – but that can usually be avoided. Donors are encouraged to add some iron-rich foods to their diet a day or so before giving blood. Good sources of iron include meat, dried beans, peas, bread, pasta, dark green leafy vegetables, dried fruits or nuts.
Blood collected benefits the local community
While the primary goal of the 3 Lives campaign is to recruit minority donors, everyone is encouraged to attend the drive and donate blood. All the blood collected will be used to help people in the local area.
Upcoming blood drives will be held:
- April 3rd, from 8:00am to 1:00pm, and 5:30pm to 8:00pm at Remington College – Lafayette Campus
- April 5th, from 8:30am to 12:30pm, and 5:00pm to 8:30pm at Remington College – Baton Rouge Campus
- April 5th, from 7:30am to 9:00pm at Remington College – Mobile Campus
- April 24th from 8:00am to 1:00pm at Remington College – Houston Southeast Campus
- April 24th from 9:00am to 2:00pm at Remington College – Nashville Campus
- April 24th from 9:00am to 3:00pm, and 6:00pm to 10:00pm at Remington College – Fort Worth Campus. AJ Green will share his story and preform on-campus for students, faculty, and staff.
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