September is Sickle Cell Awareness Month, a time to recognize and support those living with sickle cell disease. This lifelong condition affects red blood cells and reduces oxygen flow to the body’s tissues and organs.
Sickle cell disease impacts millions worldwide and is the most common inherited blood disorder in the US. It affects 1 in every 365 Black or African American births and is more common among people of African, Hispanic, Mediterranean, Middle Eastern and South Asian descent. Those with the disease face serious complications such as chronic pain, stroke, infections and organ damage. Many rely on frequent blood transfusions—sometimes as many as 100 units of blood each year—to manage symptoms and stay healthy.
The Black Employee Network, UNIDOS and AAPI at Republic Business Resource Groups are partnering with the Republic Services Community Investment team to raise awareness of the importance of blood donations during this month. Your blood donation could help ease symptoms or even save the life of someone with sickle cell disease.
Whether onsite or remote, you can support our communities because we are better together.
Let’s unite this September and make a real difference.