General Information On Sickle Cell Charities

By Kelly Wood


Charity is a term used to describe voluntarily giving help to others who have needs, usually those who are not related to the giver in any way. This is done out of pure kindness. Sickle cell charities are specifically meant to provide both support and aid to those who are suffering with this type of blood disorder that is known to be hereditary. There are charities with this focus all around the world that offer emotional and financial help.

Sickle-cell disease, also called SCD, or sickle-cell anemia, SCA, are the commonly used terms to describe this disorder that is characterized by red blood cells that take an rigid, abnormal, sickle shape, hence the name. The sickling is what decreases the ability of cells to be flexible and can cause many complications. Those who have this are known to have a lowered life expectancy. Still, many treatments are available to allow these individuals to live a comfortable life.

Charities are known to offer a range of services that are entirely free for the persons receiving them. Medical bills of sickle cell patients tend to be extremely high and even unmanageable. With help from fundraisers and drives, these charity groups may be able to earn funds to help cover the medical costs and thus, reduce stress of debt.

There are so many foundations that are designed to bring about awareness. The host seminars and events all across the globe. Usually such non-profit groups engage in a variety of charity projects. They might also fight to get the medical field doing more research on this disease.

Volunteers are the individuals who generally run these foundations, fundraisers, charities and other organizations that seek to help the families and those with sickle cell disorders. These charities might also organize therapy groups or hire counselors to work with patients and improve their state of mind. Another form of charity that may be given to those in need is donors. Many people may choose to donate their blood, if applicable, to a program that gives to those in need.

The disease is linked to the blood system. It is known to result in lung and tissue damage, strokes, terrible pain and anemia. More than 70, 000 people living in America who are afflicted with this disease and thousands of others in different parts of the world. Likewise, it is believed that of that number, 90 percent of these cases is with people who come from African descent. To date, there is not a cure for this problem, but managing it is possible through blood transfusions and other treatments.

These charities can be beneficial to this community in so many ways. Those who have this condition may be able to manage their condition through transfusion therapy, marrow transplants, penicillin and folic acid, hydroxyurea, malaria chemoprophylaxis, and vaso-occlusive crisis. Living with this is possible, but may require more frequent visits to the doctor to ensure that everything is in order.

Sickle cell charities can be found in most parts of the world. These non-profit entities strive to provide help to those suffering with sickle cell disorders. There are numerous ways this help is administered. Some offer financial support, others are focused on bringing about awareness and encouraging new research. Even donating blood is an effective way to participate.




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