Patients with XK disease have the rare McLeod blood phenotype (lacking Kx antigen). This makes their blood type extremely rare, and if they need a blood transfusion, often they can only accept transfusions from other people with XK disease. We have previously published stories in the NA News about the need for XK patients to contact their local blood bank to have their own blood stored, as it is so difficult to find this blood type, especially in an emergency.

Another group of people who sometimes also have this very rare blood type are those with X-linked Chronic Granulomatous Disease (CGD). In recent years, advances in treatment have made it possible for children with CGD, who are vulnerable to many types of infections and often require surgery, to live to adulthood.

Recently, Nathan quickly heeded a request to visit his local blood bank to donate his blood on behalf of an infant, perhaps an infant with CGD.

It remains important for XK patients to have their blood stored for their own personal needs, but it is helpful to make regular donations, if able, so that others may benefit, too. In the United States, patients should contact the blood bank in their region, specifically finding the person(s) responsible for storage of rare blood types. 

Thanks for stepping up, Nathan!