Dr. Terri Williams has a long history of donating blood, stretching back to her high school days. After her cancer diagnosis in 2011, she was no longer able to donate.

“During my birthday in May last year, I learned that blood products were being used to treat people suffering from COVID-19, and I was motivated by the need that I saw,” said Dr. Williams.

It was last May that Dr. Williams was surprised to discover she’s eligible to donate blood again. Her church, Grace Christian Church in Columbia, was hosting a drive in a predominantly African American community. She attended the drive to support her church, not expecting to be able to give blood.

Dr. Williams was aware that African American blood donors, in particular, are needed to help close the Sickle Cell gap. Sickle cell disease is most prevalent in individuals of African descent. For many patients, a close blood type match is essential and is found in donors of the same race or similar ethnicity.

“I’m donating for my community. I never realized how important the matching is beyond blood typing,” said Dr. Williams. “It’s an easy way to give back for me. Every time I give blood, it’s thrilling to share that with others in my community.”

Now an 8-year breast cancer survivor, Dr. Williams is back to giving blood and advocating for blood donation within her community. She gave more blood donations in 2020 than any other year, and she’s committed to giving blood regularly for as long as she can. Join Dr. Williams and schedule your blood donation today at redcrossblood.org.