The Capital Area Chapter of the American Red Cross is hosting a special blood drive through Saturday. The purpose is to help those who suffer from a disease that hasn't been getting much attention.
The Red Cross's Karen Duncan said the name of that disease is sickle cell anemia.
"People don't talk about it a lot, but it particularly afflicts members of the African American community. It's a devastating disease and whatever we can do to help, the American Red Cross is here to do it."
She said that's taking the form of special blood drives Thursday, Friday, and Saturday.
"We have a severe shortage right now, so we are desperate for anyone to come help out those in need."
Friday's drive will be at Disc Village on Pensacola Street from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. The drive wraps up Saturday at the Red Cross headquarters on Easterwood Drive between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.
