By: Ruby Ramirez
Monday, December 20, marks the second time Georgia Red Cross CEO, Dee Dixon and her daughter, Kyra, have rolled up their sleeves to donate blood to help patients in need. This time, it’s slightly different as the two brought along an additional family member – Dee’s cousin, Sheldonia Posley – making it a family affair at the Midtown Atlanta Blood, Platelet Donation Center.
“My hope is that I can continue to bring someone else each time I donate and continue to spread the word about the importance of a diverse blood supply and constant need for blood,” said the Red Cross of Georgia CEO. “Unfortunately, blood cannot be manufactured, and there are patients out there who need us. I am so proud to say my family and I are here answering the call to give and helping those patients in need.”
Both Dee and Kyra carry the sickle cell trait and look to bring awareness to increase the number of diverse blood donors who get out to donate.
It is estimated that 100,000 people across the U.S. live with sickle cell disease, a disease that disproportionately impacts Black and African Americans. Matching a patient to a donor of the same race or similar ethnicity is essential to prevent complications from transfusions, which are critical in managing some of the effects of the disease.
Kyra, an aspiring physician, says it “warms her heart” to be able to help patients in need.
“I am doing something that can help make an impact in somebody’s life, and it means that much more to be able to do that with my mom and my cousin. I love my family and love being able to do something like this,” said Kyra.
During the visit, the family proudly wore the long sleeve holiday t-shirts given to them by the American Red Cross in thanks for their blood donation. The t-shirts will be given to each donor through Jan. 2 while supplies last.
The family’s donation comes amid the lowest blood supply the American Red Cross has seen in over a decade. The ongoing decline comes at a time of year when donations typically fall. Holiday get-togethers, school breaks, and winter weather often lead to lower donor turnout.
Potential donors are urged to Give Something that Means Something by scheduling an appointment now by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org, or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).