The American Red Cross is seeking blood donations in September as part of National Sickle Cell Awareness Month.

The estimated 100,000 Americans with sickle cell disease face a lifetime of blood transfusions. During September, the American Red Cross is encouraging blood donations from donors of all types.

Most people with sickle cell disease are of African descent, but many are of Indian, Middle Eastern, Hispanic, Mediterranean and other descents. Because recipients are less likely to have complications from blood donated by someone with the same ethnicity, a diverse supply is important.

Sickle cell disease causes red blood cells to form an abnormal shape. Regular blood transfusions can help reduce the risks of stroke, damage to major organs and other complications. While better management of the disease has increased life expectancy in recent years, there is still no cure.

Visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-733-2767 to learn more and make an appointment to donate blood.

Donation opportunities in Mower County

•1 to 7 p.m. Sept. 16 at the American Legion Hall, 321 W. Main St., Adams

•12:30 to 5:30 p.m. Sept. 17 at the American Red Cross Freeborn-Mower County Chapter, 305 NW Fourth Ave., Austin

•1 to 7 p.m. Oct. 14 at St. Edward’s Corcoran Center, Second Ave. NW, Austin

•Noon to 6 p.m. Oct. 15 at St. Edward’s Corcoran Center, Second Ave. NW, Austin

•Noon to 6 p.m. Oct. 16 at St. Edward’s Corcoran Center, Second Ave. NW, Austin