An inherited condition resulting in deformed and malfunctioning red blood cells, sickle cell anemia is no joke. But this Saturday's Sickle Cell Auction is two student groups' way of fighting a serious disease with fun and laughs.
According to blackhealth.com, sickle cell disorders are mostly found in people of African, Mediterranean, Indian and Middle Eastern heritage.
Because the disease affects one in four African Americans, the Black Student Union stepped up in 2001 to help the cause, starting the Sickle Cell Auction, an event where BSU and the Alpha Beta Sigma sorority's members auction themselves off as dates, with the proceeds going toward sickle cell research.
The Sickle Cell Auction started as a BSU event, but has since partnered with Alpha Beta Sigma, giving the event even more resources - and more dates to auction off. The auction and its participants hope to raise awareness about the disease and money to help in finding a cure.
Jessica Neilan, a senior social sciences major, said the auction is not only for a good cause, but also an entertaining event that students look forward to. A member of the Alpha Beta Sigma sorority and this year's co-host, she expects it to be an entertaining night for all.
"It's crazy because you don't know who's going to come out next and how they're going to act," said Neilan. "It's always surprising and everybody is willing to spend money because it's for a good cause."
According to event organizers, the event generates much support from different ethnic communities, and this year, many students who have bid in the auction in the past are returning to auction themselves off.
"The auction has been a great success. I've been in it for the past two years and it's a good cause to participate in," said Tricia Grannum, a senior communications major and vice president of the BSU. "The support from the African American and Latino community has been phenomenal, but we encourage everyone to come out and participate."
The auction has proved its ability to raise substantial amounts of money. Grannum recalls her sophomore year being auctioned off and receiving the record setting bid of $210.
Winning bids get attention, but they don't actually result in dates, as the auction is more a show than an actual market. But though winning bidders ultimately emerge dateless, they are placed in high regard for their generous donations, according to organizers.
Neilan said the amount raised at this year's auction will surpass the amounts raised in previous years as the donations will not only help local sickle cell anemia research but also the victims of the recent hurricane Katrina tragedy.
"This year is going to be the best year ever," she said.
Last year the auctioning of hot-bodied students yielded $2,625. This year's goal is $3,500.
The 5th Annual Sickle Cell Walk at McCarthy Park near UB's South Campus will precede the auction. Neilan said the walk usually draws a diverse mix of both local Buffalo residents and students of the university.
Akil Dove, a graduate student in economics, said that his fraternity Beta Sigma Kappa comes out for the walk every year.
"You get up, you walk about a mile, and you get t-shirts and signs," said Dove. "It's nice and a good walk. Last year we had the fire department, and every year there are more and more people.
The auction and walk will take place on Saturday, Sept. 17 in the Student Union Theater with doors opening at 4 p.m. and the show beginning at 5 p.m. Tickets are $5 at the door with UB ID and $7 without. Supporters are encouraged to come early, as seats are limited.
This year, participants will be applauded for their involvement in the auction on Sunday, Sept. 18, at the Sickle Cell Brunch, location to be announced.
Those interested in participating in this year's auction should send an email to either alphachap@hotmail.com or BSU1967@gmail.com for more information.
Photo: Courtesy of Matthew Messina, from the RMBERS' Instagram page
