Sunday, October 27, 2013

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.

SCD, sickle-cell disease, or SCA, sickle-cell anemia are two common terms used to describe this condition. The disease involves red blood cells that have an abnormal, sickle, rigid shape. This sickling lowers the ability of the cells to be flexible, which ultimately leads to other complications. Those who have this condition are known to have a shorter life expectancy. Nonetheless, there are numerous treatments that can be employed to make living more comfortable.

Charities of this kind may provide numerous services, all of which come at no cost to those on the receiving end. The medical bills of an individual with this condition can be overwhelmingly high. Through drives and fundraisers, those involved in these groups strive to earn money that can be used to cover medical costs and reduce some of the stress that may be caused by not knowing how to pay bills.

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.

Mostly volunteers operate these foundations, charities, fundraiser and similar organizations that strive to help people with the disease, as well as their family. The charities may also organize therapy groups or set up counselors with patients as a way to improve their overall disposition and state of mind. Another type of charity involves being a donor. Many people opt to donate blood to these programs, if they meet the requirements.

This disease is one related to the blood system of the body and is known to cause tissue and lung damage, anemia, terrible pain and strokes. There are approximately 70,000 people in the United States of America who have this disease, and thousands of others in different countries. Furthermore, it is estimated that 90 percent of the sickle cell cases in America are found in people with African descent. There is currently no cure for this condition, but it can be managed through regular blood transfusions.

There are a lot of ways these groups can help this community. Those who suffer with the disease may be able to better manage it through various procedures, such as: folic acid and penicillin, vaso-occlusive crisis, hydroxyurea, transfusion therapy, malaria chemoprophylaxis, and marrow transplants. In living with this condition, individuals can expect frequent trips to the doctor to ensure they are doing well.

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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