Blood Assurance in Chattanooga Needs Your Help

They’re looking for all blood donors, but especially those who are Black, Latino, or Indian.

Blood Assurance say those races are more likely to be affected by Sickle Cell Disease.

That’s a genetic disorder where red blood cells are misshaped.

It can lead to severe pain and organ damage.

Since patients who have the disease need more blood transfusions, Blood Assurance needs to stock up on all blood types.

Elizabeth E. Culler, Medical Director with Blood Assurance, says, "It’s the best way to volunteer if you don’t time, this is a great way to do it because it would take you less than an hour. You can knock it out on your lunch break. We would ask that you eat a good meal and drink lots of water before you donate."

September is National Sickle Cell Disease Awareness Month.