Sickle cell blood drive campaign during the month of April

Arkansas – The Arkansas Blood Institute will make a series of six blood donation drives during the month of April.

Donors most likely to carry the sickle cell trait (non-Caucasians) will receive a free sickle cell trait screening, so they will know if they carry the gene. This is vital information to have when planning a family.

It’s estimated that 100,000 people are living with sickle cell, primarily in the African American and Latino communities. Children with two parents who carry the sickle cell trait are likely to develop the disease. Sickle cell disease is the most common genetic disease in the country. Currently, there is no cure.

Regular blood transfusions are a vital part of managing sickle cell disease, but it can be very challenging to find a blood match. Properly matched blood is critical to treat Arkansans who suffer from this painful and debilitating disease. The best donors come from the same race/ethnicity, making it vital for these communities to donate blood.

Below are upcoming blood drives supported the Arkansas Blood Institute. You can call (877) 340-8777 to make your lifesaving appointment*.

Friday, April 1: 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Simmons Bank Arena

Monday, April 4: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Little Rock Central High School (Day 1)

Tuesday, April 5: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Little Rock Central High School (Day 2)

Wednesday, April 13: 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Pine Bluff Community Blood Drive at the Pine Bluff Convention Center

Tuesday, April 19: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
The University of Arkansas at Little Rock Student Center

Wednesday, April 27: 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Arkansas Children’s Hospital

Saturday, April 30: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Midtowne Shopping Center

*Photo ID required. 16-year-olds must weigh at least 125 pounds and provide signed parental permission; 17-year-olds must weigh at least 125 pounds; 18+-year-olds must weigh at least 110 pounds.