(Ontario, CA) – The Sickle Cell Disease Foundation (SCDF) is rallying communities, health care providers, and policymakers to recognize September as Sickle Cell Disease Awareness Month and use this time to address one of the most neglected health crises in America. Despite affecting more than 100,000 people in the U.S., particularly African American and Hispanic communities, sickle cell disease (SCD) remains critically underfunded, underserved, and misunderstood.
“Sickle Cell Disease Awareness Month isn’t just about raising awareness—it’s a call to action,” said Jennifer Fields, MPH, Implementation Strategist, Sickle Cell Disease Foundation. “We need to confront the glaring inequities that exist in health care access, research funding, and patient support. It’s time to move beyond empty promises and make a real commitment to the sickle cell community by ensuring that every patient receives the quality care, respect, and resources they deserve.”
Throughout September, SCDF will lead a powerful series of initiatives designed to educate, mobilize, and inspire:
• The Kindest Red Blood Drive for Sickle Cell Disease: In partnership with the American Red Cross Blood Services, this drive addresses the urgent need for blood donations that match the unique needs of sickle cell warriors. (Come give blood September 14 for an EXCLUSIVE Red Cross raglan shirt, while supplies last.) RSVP here.
• End of Summer Jam, Sickle Cell Walk, and Reunion: Join SCDF and Azuza Pacific University on Saturday, September 21, for a vibrant community celebration and walk bringing together sickle cell warriors, families, and supporters. RSVP here by September 7.
• SCD Awareness Month Toolkit: Access a comprehensive set of resources, including fact sheets, social media graphics, and educational materials, designed to elevate awareness and drive meaningful change throughout the month. Download here.
• Neglected No More: Join us in challenging lawmakers and health care leaders to prioritize SCD in policy and funding decisions and encourage reforms that will directly benefit patients. SCDF, in partnership with the Center for Inherited Blood Disorders, recently secured a one-time appropriation of $5M to the California Department of Public Health for Sickle Cell Centers of Excellence, also known as Networking California for Sickle Cell Care (NCSCC). To become involved in SCDF’s advocacy efforts, please contact Naty Alvarez, Naty@perrycom.com.
• Support SCDF with Your Donations: Your generosity directly impacts SCDF’s ability to provide essential services to individuals living with SCD every day. Donate here.
“We won’t rest until the voices of those living with sickle cell disease are heard loud and clear,” said Mary Brown, President and CEO, Sickle Cell Disease Foundation. “This month, let’s turn awareness into action. Together, we can continue to rewrite the future of sickle cell disease and bring hope to every patient and family impacted by this devastating condition.”
SCDF calls on all Californians—and allies nationwide—to stand with the sickle cell community this September. By participating in events, sharing resources, and advocating for policy change, individuals can help dismantle the barriers that have persisted for far too long. For more information on how to get involved during Sickle Cell Disease Awareness Month, visit www.scdfc.org.
About the Sickle Cell Disease Foundation
The Sickle Cell Disease Foundation (SCDF) was incorporated in 1957 and is the first and oldest Sickle Cell Disease community-based organization of its kind in the nation. As the only organization in California approved to provide Hemoglobin-Trait Counseling Services and direct the Sickle Cell Educator/Counselor Certification Training Course, SCDF provides life-enhancing education, services and programs for individuals living with Sickle Cell Disease. SCDF broadens public awareness, delivers effective advocacy initiatives, and promotes innovative therapies to ultimately find a cure. Learn more by visiting www.scdfc.org.
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