Britain’s Got Talent wrapped up this week, but not before a choir comprised of singers living with sickle cell disease or those who have loved ones with the rare blood condition captured the nation’s attention with their message of inspiration.
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The aptly-named B Positive choir was formed by the United Kingdom’s National Health Service in order to raise awareness for sickle cell disease and the need for blood donations. B Positive released its first single, titled “Rise Up,” last year and performed it for its successful Britain’s Got Talent audition, which aired in April.
The 30-plus member group went on to become a fan favorite and was a surprise addition to Sunday’s finale after appearing to be eliminated from the contest last week. True to its name, the choir was gracious upon learning that it originally didn’t make the cut. Choir Master Colin Anderson thanked fans before promising that the group would continue to be a voice for those living with sickle cell disease.
Sickle cell disease is a life-threatening condition that affects a person’s blood cells. It can leave patients with fatigue and shortness of breath and can also lead to kidney disease and strokes. CSL Behring is exploring the use of gene therapy techniques to possibly treat the condition in the future.
