|
WHAT'S HAPPENED
During the first quarter of 2026, the Sickle Cell Foundation of Georgia (SCFG) stayed true to its mission—showing up for warriors and their families with compassion, consistency, and care. Through ongoing programs, outreach efforts, and support services, the Foundation remained focused on what matters most: the health, education, and overall well-being of those living with sickle cell disease.
Whether providing direct support, advocating for better care, or engaging with the community, SCFG continues to serve as “gap fillers”—bridging critical needs and making sure warriors have the resources they need not just to get by, but to truly thrive. In doing so, the Foundation reinforces its role as a trusted, dedicated pillar in the community.
| | | | |
|
In January, at the Sickle Cell Blood Diversity blood drive hosted by DiscoveringMoorer2Life, SCFG’s Jeanette Nu’man used the moment to shine a light on a critical issue: what happens when warriors transition from pediatric to adult care.
She spoke candidly about the challenges many individuals face as they age out of pediatric systems—often stepping into adult care that isn’t fully equipped to support their unique needs. More importantly, she emphasized the urgent need for smoother, more supportive pathways during this transition.
Her remarks didn’t just raise awareness—they reinforced SCFG’s role as “gap fillers,” advocating for better systems, stronger support, and improved long-term outcomes for the sickle cell community.
| | | |
SCFG proudly hosted its Community-Based Organization (CBO) Capacity Building Annual Meeting—bringing together organizations united by a shared goal: strengthening support for individuals and families affected by sickle cell disease.
During the meeting, SCFG welcomed its newest CBO partners: the Sickle International Family Coalition, DiscoveringMoorer2Life, Beyond Sickle Cell Disease Foundation, and Awotwe Sickle Cell Disease Foundation. Each organization brings unique strengths and a shared commitment to serving the sickle cell community.
These growing partnerships reflect SCFG’s continued investment in collaboration, expanded reach, and deeper community impact—helping to build a more unified and responsive network of support for warriors across the region.
For more information about all of our community based organization partners, click on the logos below or visit sicklecellga.org/community-based-orgs
| | | | |
| |
A message from our sponsor | | |
Cellarity is a biotechnology company committed to advancing research and expanding treatment options for people living with sickle cell disease. Its novel investigational medicine, CLY-124, was specifically designed for the treatment of Sickle Cell Disease.CLY-124 is a once-daily oral pill with potential to increase fetal hemoglobin, a type of hemoglobin that may help reduce sickling of red blood cells.
As part of an ongoing Phase 1 clinical study, CLY-124 has been studied in more than 70 healthy adult volunteers and is now being evaluated in adults with sickle cell disease globally. A participating research site is open in Atlanta at CenExel Atlanta, making this study available to eligible participants in Georgia.
If you are interested in learning more about this clinical study or seeing whether you may be eligible to participate, please contact CenExel Atlanta at (404) 881-5800.
| | | | |
|
In February, SCFG’s CEO, Dr. Tabatha McGee, served as a featured speaker at the University of Georgia chapter of the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW) 2nd Annual Sickle Cell Gala. The event focused on raising awareness, strengthening advocacy efforts, and generating critical funding to support individuals living with sickle cell disease. One of the highlights was an especially generous donation—an investment that will go a long way in helping SCFG expand its reach and continue providing essential resources and support to warriors and their families.
| | | |
SCFG’s Camp Director and warrior, Kadeem Harrison, participated in a panel discussion at Spelman College in Atlanta. The panel brought together patients and caregivers for an honest, impactful conversation focused on the real-life challenges facing individuals living with sickle cell disease—helping to elevate awareness and spark meaningful dialogue around the issues that matter most.
| | We are proud to celebrate the continued growth of the HBCU Ambassador Program, led by Cameryn Thorpe, alongside Taylor Gamble and Javin Ali. In their roles as ambassadors, they are helping to build and sustain a strong campus presence by leading the recruitment, onboarding, and engagement of fellow ambassadors. They also coordinate sickle cell education and awareness initiatives, support collaboration with partner organizations and the Morehouse College cohort, and maintain consistent communication with SCFG leadership. Their work also includes supporting documentation, planning efforts, and ensuring leadership continuity—helping to strengthen and expand the program’s impact across campuses. | | | | |
|
The month of March was highlighted by Sickle Cell Day at the Capitol. This year’s event marked a shift in approach. Rather than hosting a traditional program, the foundation led a constituent-driven advocacy effort, placing warriors and supporters directly inside legislators’ offices to share personal experiences and deliver clear policy priorities.
Throughout the day, advocates met with elected officials to discuss priorities focused on expanding access to care, strengthening data collection, and advancing comprehensive sickle cell services statewide.
The event coincided with the House, and eventual Senate passage of Georgia House Bill 334, also known as The Sickle Cell Protection Act. The bill "requires the Department of Community Health to conduct an annual review of medications and treatment for sickle cell disease for Medicaid recipients" among other things.
A special thank you goes out to Representatives Omari Crawford, Anne Westbrook, Mary Oliver, Edna Jackson, Michelle Au, Inga Willis, and Senator Ed Harbison for sponsoring the bill.
And SCFG would like to thank to Children's Healthcare of Atlanta and Novo Nordisk for sponsoring the event.
| | | |
Sick Cells hosted the 2026 Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) Policy Forum, “Voices to Action,” bringing together advocates, experts, and community leaders to push for meaningful improvements in policy and care. Members of SCFG were proud to be part of the effort, participating in Hill Day, where they met with federal legislators to share insights, elevate the realities of living with sickle cell disease, and advocate for policy solutions that better support the community.
| | | | |
| |
|
SCFG’s Community Health Workers, along with the Director of Health Education & Outreach, Bronaugh Bridges, play a vital role in filling the gap between healthcare systems and the communities they serve. Through their presence at health fairs and community events, they provide essential education, on-site screenings, and direct connections to care for individuals who may otherwise face barriers to access. Their work not only increases awareness of sickle cell disease and other health conditions, but also builds trust, empowers individuals to take charge of their health, and connects families to critical resources. By meeting people where they are, SCFG’s Community Health Workers help foster healthier communities and drive meaningful, lasting impact.
Click here to request SCFG's attendance at your next health fair
Click here to request help from a CHW
| | | | |
|
Whether you’re a seasoned leader, developing your leadership skills, or just beginning to explore your potential, the Fit to Lead Symposium is designed with you in mind. This dynamic experience will equip you with practical tools, fresh perspectives, and meaningful connections to help you lead with confidence and purpose. Don’t miss the opportunity to grow, be inspired, and take the next step in your leadership journey. Secure your spot today.
The Fit To Lead Symposium is built on a bold and necessary belief:
Strong leaders build strong communities—but only when they are strong within themselves.
This 3-Day Symposium Will Focus On:
Leadership
Guiding with clarity, vision, and integrity.
Strong leadership inspires others, fosters courageous decision-making, and creates environments where people and ideas can thrive.
Wellness
Sustainable leadership begins with personal well-being.
Prioritizing physical health, mental clarity, and emotional balance allows leaders to serve with energy and purpose.
Resilience
Challenges are inevitable, but resilient leaders rise stronger.
Resilience transforms adversity into wisdom, perseverance, and growth.
Community Impact
Leadership is not just about personal success—it’s about lifting others.
True leaders create opportunities, strengthen communities, and leave a lasting legacy of service.
| | |
SCFG's Annual Young Adult Retreat is more than a vacation or a simple getaway — it is a purposeful experience created to empower young adults living with Sickle Cell Disease, to confidently navigate adulthood and build meaningful, fulfilling lives.
This retreat combines engaging activities, interactive group discussions, educational workshops, and intentional social opportunities designed to strengthen independence, leadership skills, emotional wellness, and peer connection. Every element of the experience is thoughtfully structured to support personal growth and real-life transition challenges.
For more information or to register, click here
| | |
Camp New Light is SCFG's six-day, five-night residential camp for children ages 7-17 with sickle cell disease. It combines the excitement and fun of a traditional summer camp, with the unique advantages of an environment and staff responsive to the camper's unique health concerns. We work to ensure that campers get to enjoy a week of adventure, while learning self-help sickle cell disease management skills, while developing a more positive self-image.
For more information about Camp New Light or to register, click here
You can help make Camp New Light an unforgettable experience for every child by donating your gently used luggage or purchasing much-needed supplies for campers. Your contribution ensures that each child arrives prepared, confident, and ready to enjoy a safe, fun, and enriching camp experience.
You can drop your luggage off at SCFG's headquarters at 2391 Benjamin E. Mays Drive, SW, Atlanta, GA 30311, Monday-Friday, from 10am to 4pm. Call 404-755-1641 with questions.
To view and donate needed camp supplies, check out the Amazon wish list.
| | |
Registration is open for the 46th Annual SCFG 5K Road Race/Walk! Once again, everyone is invited to lace up their sneakers and join us for a meaningful run or walk through the historic streets of downtown East Point, Georgia, on Saturday, September 5th, 2026. All participants will receive a finisher’s medal and a race event t-shirt.
The course is certified by USATF and is a qualifying event for the Peachtree Road Race.
Register at sicklecellrace.com
| | |
Mark your calendars and save the date for this year’s 4th Annual Gala benefitting SCFG's Camp New Light. This special evening will bring together supporters, advocates, and community leaders for a night of celebration, impact, and purpose as we continue the fight against sickle cell disease. Stay tuned for more details, and be sure to reserve the date (December 19th) —you won’t want to miss this unforgettable event.
| |
Do you need an advocate while you're in the hospital?
The SCFG Care Bears dedicate themselves to ensuring that no patient feels invisible. They work tirelessly at the bedside, listening with empathy, advocating fiercely, and making sure every patient’s voice is heard—especially when they’re too tired or too overwhelmed to speak for themselves.
If you've recently been hospitalized due to complications caused by sickle cell disease, and need assistance from a SCFG Care Bear, click here.
| |
|
Your donations play a vital role in transforming the lives of individuals affected by sickle cell disease. These contributions help fund essential services like patient care, genetic counseling, and community education.
Donations enable the Sickle Cell Foundation of Georgia to provide resources for families navigating the emotional and financial challenges of this chronic condition. By investing in the sickle cell community, you can help close gaps in healthcare access and ensure that those affected receive the support and hope they deserve. Every dollar given moves us closer to a future where sickle cell disease no longer defines anyone’s quality of life.
Click here for a one-time donation
Click here to become a recurring donor
| | | | |
| | |
“I have been going to the wellness center consistently for about a year now and it has helped me take better care of my overall health in an easy way. I am able to get IV hydration, medication refills as well as therapy and nutrition services in the same place. Even when the services stopped being free for warriors, I was still able to use them with the sliding scale when I didn’t have insurance.
The Sickle Cell Foundation of Georgia has been an important part of my support system for the past few years. Their programs have helped me get approved for food stamps, have groceries when I couldn’t afford it myself, and given me tools and information to help me live well as a warrior. Last year, the Young Adult Retreat was during my birthday and I couldn’t have thought of a better place to celebrate it."
Sanatu Musah, Sickle Cell Warrior
| | | | |
|
The Sickle Cell Sanctuary had another impactful quarter. Have you taken advantage of its services?
If the answer to the question is "no", then we invite you to make an appointment to come and take advantage of all of the services we offer.
And if the answer to the question is "yes", we want you to come back and see us.
To make an appointment, go to sicklecellsanctuary.com or call 404-755-1641.
Also, keep in mind that you can purchase products and services directly from our shop page at sicklecellsanctuary.com/shop.
| | | | |
