New Children’s Book Aims to Boost Black Blood Donors for Sickle Cell Patients

To mark World Book Day, NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT) is distributing hundreds of children’s books to primary school pupils across Manchester, aiming to inspire a new generation of Black heritage blood donors. The initiative addresses a critical shortfall in blood donations needed to treat sickle cell disease, a growing inherited blood disorder disproportionately affecting individuals of Black Caribbean and Black African descent.

Raising Awareness Through Storytelling

My Blood, Your Blood, written by Laura Henry-Allain, chronicles the experiences of Angel Salami and her father, Kehinde, both living with sickle cell disease. The book is narrated from the perspective of Angel when she was four years old – the same age as the reception pupils in the 21 primary schools across Manchester who will receive a copy. It aims to demystify sickle cell disease for children, their families, and educators.

The Importance of Ro Blood Type

The blood of Black heritage donors is particularly vital in treating sickle cell disease. Individuals with Black African or Black Caribbean heritage are ten times more likely than the white population to have the Ro blood type, which is crucial for effective treatment.

Demand Outstrips Supply in Manchester

Recent NHSBT data reveals a significant gap between the demand for Ro blood and the available supply in Manchester. Between January 2025 and January 2026, hospitals in Manchester requested 4,036 units of Ro blood for sickle cell patients, but only 74% (2,974 units) were available. This shortage means some patients may not receive the full amount of blood transfusions they need, or may receive less effective blood types as substitutes.

Expanding the Initiative

Manchester joins Birmingham and London as one of only three cities in the UK to participate in this book distribution program. More than 900 copies of My Blood, Your Blood are being sent to primary schools across Manchester and will also be available in public libraries throughout the city.

How to Donate

Giving blood takes approximately an hour. To become a blood donor, you can download the NHSBT app, visit the NHSBT website, or call 0300 123 23 23.

About Sickle Cell Disease

Sickle cell disease is a group of inherited red blood cell disorders. Healthy red blood cells are round and flexible, allowing them to move easily through small blood vessels. In sickle cell disease, the red blood cells become rigid and sickle-shaped, which can block blood flow and cause pain, organ damage, and other serious health problems. Kehinde and Angel Salami share their experiences living with sickle cell, highlighting the lifesaving role of blood donors.

The Story Behind the Book

The book was commissioned by NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT) and features Kehinde and Angel Salami as the main characters. Kehinde learned he had sickle cell disease in his 20s, while Angel was diagnosed at birth. Sickle cell crises, painful episodes caused by blocked blood vessels, can last up to a week. Angel hopes the book will encourage people to learn more about blood disorders and donate blood to save lives. Read more about their story on the BBC.