Why a diverse blood supply is critical for sickle cell patients

CHESTERFIELD, Va. (WRIC) -- As September marks National Sickle Cell Disease Awareness Month, a local man’s story highlights a critical need in the community -- compatible blood donations. For more than 4,000 Virginians living with this serious blood disorder, a donation isn’t just helpful, it’s a lifeline.

At 36 years old, Jamal Bailey manages sickle cell disease every day. It's a genetic blood disorder that affects a protein in his red blood cells, causing pain and other complications.

"Sometimes you have severe pain. It also has other effects, like you can have problems with your spleen, problems with your lungs,” Bailey said.

While Jamal’s routine includes medication, a healthy diet and exercise, he relies on an exchange blood transfusion at VCU Health to maintain his quality of life. During the transfusion, he receives four units of blood.

“Usually I feel it right away, but it really hits me like a day or two after the transfusion,” he said.

Without the transfusion, the effects are debilitating.

“I am not able to keep up with my normal activities because I am very sluggish, very tired and really can't get out of my bed,” Bailey explained.

According to Dr. Courtney Lawrence, Divisional Chief Medical Officer at the American Red Cross, this critical need for compatible blood relies heavily on the generosity of donors.

“Blood needs to be compatible for a B type, O type, AB. But what many people don't know is that there's over 300 different proteins on our red blood cells,” Dr. Lawrence said.

Sickle cell disease is one of the most common chronic disorders found in African Americans. Blood that is a compatible match for patients with sickle cell disease is often found in donors of similar ethnicity.

“We happen to know that for his blood needs, donors who are African, Black or African American ethnicity are more likely to be a match for Jamal's specific type of blood needs," Dr. Lawrence said. "So that's why we really do need blood donors of every background who are willing to come in and donate.”

(Photo credit: Madison Moore, Dr. Courtney Lawrence and Jamal Bailey)

For Jamal, a monthly transfusion means he can do his favorite things, like going to the movies, playing video games and taking walks.

He has a powerful message for the donors and Red Cross staff who make that possible.

“Without them, I would not be the person who I am now. I would be in my bedroom sick," he said. "You are a life saver and we need you.”

For more information on how you can donate and potentially save a life, you can visit the American Red Cross website.