Dear editor:

Not too long ago a group of Liberty County citizens attended Sickle Cell Day at the Capitol in Atlanta. To follow up on the topic of sickle cell disease, I want to call to the community’s attention another important milestone in the fight against sickle cell.

June 19 is World Sickle Cell Day.  World Sickle Cell Day was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2008. This international awareness day is observed with the goal to increase public awareness and understanding of sickle cell disease, and the challenges experienced by patients their families and caregivers. 

This year is the 10th anniversary of World Sickle Cell Day.  The theme is “Shine the Light on Sickle Cell.”  Sickle cell disease, a hereditary blood disorder, was discovered 100 years ago. Since that discovery an alarming number of men, women and children in the following countries are suffering and dying daily: United States, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Nigeria, Greece, India and Italy to name a few.

Let’s join together and “Shine the Light on Sickle Cell.” By participating in the local and global events across the nation, we are connecting hearts and minds in love and life in the fight against sickle cell disease. I encourage all community-based organizations, individuals, health care professionals, and anyone concerned about sickle cell disease to help us get this genetic health condition under control all over the world, especially in our community.  How can you help? If you know of someone with sickle cell disease let them know that they do not have to suffer in silence. 

There is a SCD Support Group in Liberty County.  The group will meet Monday, June 24 at 6 p.m. at St. Peter’s AME Church located at 5394 E. Oglethorpe Highway, in Midway. Let’s “Shine the Light on Sickle Cell” by getting the word out!

Dr. Deloris Mitchell

Executive Director

Tapestry Connections

A sickle cell organization