Sickle cell auction

An inherited condition resulting in deformed and malfunctioning red blood cells, sickle cell anemia is a serious disease. To do their part to aid in the fight against this sickness, the Black Student Union and Alpha Beta Sigma have created a fun and successful way to raise money for the cause.

According to a www.blackhealth.com, sickle cell disorders are found in people of African, Mediterranean, Indian and Middle Eastern heritage. Because the disease affects one in four African Americans, the BSU has decided to help the cause.

The Sickle Cell Auction, which began four years ago, has since partnered with the Alpha Beta Sigma sorority to double the effectiveness of their event. 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 that the auction, which takes place this coming Saturday, is not only a good cause but also an entertaining event which students look forward to. As 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."

The event generates much support from different communities, and this year, many students who have taken part in the auction in the past are returning to auction themselves off or to bid as an audience member.

"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 being auctioned off her sophomore year and receiving the record-setting bid of $210.

Although winning bidders ultimately emerge dateless, they are placed in high regards for their generous donations.

Neilan believes that the amount raised at this year's auction will surpass the amounts raised in previous years. The donations will help local sickle cell anemia research as well as 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 and this year's goal is $3,500.

The auction is preceded by the 5th Annual Sickle Cell Walk at McCarthy Park near UB's South Campus, and 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, September 17th 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 college 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, September 18 at the Sickle Cell Brunch, location to be announced.

If you are interested in participating in this year's auction or would just like more information, send an email to either alphachap@hotmail.com or BSU1967@gmail.com.