People living with a serious blood condition in the North West are benefitting from a new service that provides emergency red blood cell transfusions 24/7.
The collaboration between NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT) and Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust (MFT) is a lifeline for patients living with Sickle Cell Disease.
Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) is the country’s fastest growing genetic blood disorder and is more prevalent in people of Black heritage. The serious, lifelong condition can cause organ failure, strokes, loss of vision, and can be fatal.
Tiffany Salako, 16, from Oldham, was diagnosed with SCD as a baby. While growing up she experienced many painful episodes, known as crises, which affected her breathing and ability to walk.
She was admitted to hospital on a number of occasions, but was unable to receive regular blood transfusions due to the risk of a dangerous build-up of iron in her blood.
At the age of 14 Tiffany was placed on the red cell exchange programme at Manchester Royal Infirmary and has some of her blood replaced by donor blood every six weeks, a treatment that does not carry the same risks to her iron levels.
Tiffany, who is studying A’levels at Oldham Sixth Form College, said: “The exchanges have made such a difference to my life. I’m so much more active now.
“The pain of a crisis could be terrible. During the bad ones I felt I couldn’t breathe, it was so frightening.
“Now, after a blood exchange I feel good and any weakness is gone. I still get pain sometimes, but I haven’t suffered a crisis or been admitted to hospital since. I can lead a normal life.”
“I had never really thought about blood donors before, but now I know the difference they make to people like me. I’m grateful to everyone who gives blood.”
