As March is recognized as Red Cross Month, the American Red Cross is calling on the Houston community to take part in a special blood drive aimed at saving lives and raising awareness about Sickle Cell Disease.

The Sickle Cell Awareness Blood Drive, held in memory of Jesse and Leona Mays, will take place on March 19 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the American Red Cross Houston Office.

The event honors a couple remembered not only for their community advocacy, but for their personal battles with blood-related illnesses. Jesse Mays, a proud alumnus of Southern University and member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., lived with sickle cell disease. His wife, Leona Mays, also a Southern University alumna and member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., fought a rare blood disorder. Together, they dedicated their lives to advocating for underserved communities and promoting the importance of blood donation.

Health experts say the need for donors—especially diverse donors—remains urgent. Sickle cell disease affects more than 100,000 people in the United States and disproportionately impacts Black Americans. The inherited condition causes red blood cells to become misshapen, leading to blocked blood flow, severe pain episodes, chronic anemia, organ damage, and an increased risk of stroke.

For many patients, regular blood transfusions are critical to managing the disease and preventing life-threatening complications. However, compatible blood matches are often harder to find. Certain blood types and antigens are more commonly shared among individuals of similar racial or ethnic backgrounds, making Black blood donors especially vital in supporting those living with sickle cell disease.

Community members interested in donating can schedule an appointment through the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, or call 1-800-RED CROSS. Donors are encouraged to complete a RapidPass health questionnaire online prior to arrival to save time.

All donors must be in good health and provide valid identification, such as a blood donor card or driver’s license.

Organizers hope the March 19 event will not only honor the legacy of Jesse and Leona Mays, but also inspire Houstonians to step up, donate, and help close a critical gap in lifesaving blood supplies.