Versiti hosts summit to raise sickle cell disease awareness

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- September is National Sickle Cell Awareness Month. Friday, Versiti held a summit to spread awareness and raise community support. 

There were opportunities for attendees to learn about the latest treatment options, get their blood type tested, and donate blood if able. 

The disease is an inherited blood disorder that requires ongoing medical care and blood transfusions -- for some, monthly. 

Versiti's Senior Manager of Community Education Kristen Harris shared the impact of this disease on local community members. 

"We know in this ZIP code of 53212 there are at least 60 people living with sickle cell disease who will often need blood transfusions, and so we're just asking the community to come out and donate if you can, if you're healthy. Please donate that blood so we can have the supply on hand," Harris said. 

Friday's event is over, but if you want to support the cause, you can make an appointment to donate blood on Versiti.org.