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GUEST COLUMN |
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE |
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State Rep.
Jewell Williams
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Jan. 19, 2009
Support local blood drive for Sickle Cell patients
By state Rep. Jewell Williams
While most people have heard about Sickle Cell Disease, many don't know what the disease actually is, its symptoms and the danger it can pose.
The inherited blood disorder involving misshapen red blood cells affects millions of people throughout the world and more than 80,000 people in the United States. Although it impacts people of many different racial and ethnic groups, the American Red Cross reports that 98 percent of those suffering from Sickle Cell Disease are African American. Often these patients require frequent blood transfusions throughout their lives.
Sickle Cell Disease causes intense pain, severe anemia, infections and vascular blockages that can lead to widespread organ damage and death. Until the past few decades, most people with sickle cell did not live beyond young adulthood, but advances in treatment have improved and lengthened the lives of patients who have access to good medical care.
How can you help people impacted by this disease? Donate blood.
The Rho Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. and the American Red Cross will hold a blood drive for Sickle Cell Disease from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. Monday, Feb. 8 at the Jones Tabernacle A.M.E. Church, 2021 W. Diamond St.
Your donation will provide better blood transfusion support for children with Sickle Cell Disease. Every month, the Philadelphia region is in need of a total of 1,500 donors in order to meet the demands of the Philadelphia Children's Hospital and St. Christopher's Hospital for Children. Every minute of every day, someone needs blood.
That blood can only come from a volunteer donor, a person like you who takes just a few minutes to donate. There is no substitute for your donation. Your donation will help save the lives of people in our immediate area.
Please make an appointment today by visiting www.pleasegiveblood.org, or call my constituent service office at 215-763-2559 and my staff will assist you in making an appointment.
State Rep. Jewell Williams represents the 197th Legislative District.
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