Sickle Cell Warriors of Buffalo Initiatives

• Being aware of Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) is crucial to our Black community because it is a genetic blood disorder that affects 1 in 365 of us. SCD is undiagnosed, leading to delayed health treatment. This is the importance of getting a screening! (which is offered at birth)

• SCWB promotes health equity and support for those affected by sickle cell disease, including those who support. Helping by advocating and supporting, ready to fight back against SCD!

  
  

1. Community Engagement Presentation February 5th

• Sponsored by Red Cross, SCWB held a blood drive. Informing the community on the importance of donating blood and the life saving impact it has on those in need of healthy blood, such as our Warriors!

• Blood transfusions and exchanges are one of the common medical treatments for SCD. This is a process that replaces damaged sickled red blood cells with healthy -non sickled- blood cells (which carry oxygen). Increasing the amount of oxygen to organs and bones results in decreasing pain, avoiding a crisis, and improving overall physical well-being.

  
  

2. Black History Month Blood Drive and Community Event on February 11th

• Partnering with WNY M&T Bank, Red Cross, and Blue Cross Blue Shield celebrates our community. Discussing the significance of diverse blood donations, collaborating up to 70 units of life saving blood! Shout out to our donors contributions with much gratitude and gift cards! SCWB was honored with a generous donation from High-mark for their mission in making an impact on the Sickle Cell movement in the community!

• Mayor Scanlon showed his respects at this event and engaged in the numerous community-based organizations, including The Healthcare Education Project who hosted an amazing Heart Health event!

  
  

3. Support Group Via Zoom February 20th

• SCWB holds a monthly virtual private support group as a resource for individuals affected by SCD. Sign up by joining the email link at https://www.scwbuffalo.org/

• Listening to and sharing testimonials, personal experiences and learning educational treatment options. This digital format allows for broader participation and networking with other states.

  
  

4. Participation in the 3rd Annual Research in Health Equity Symposium in Rochester, NY February 28th

• Discuss how the insights gained from the symposium are vital in shaping future initiatives.

• SCWB was a panelist in attending to the symposium focused on health equity. Many nurses, Medical Doctors, including Dr. Francis Coyne of hematology at University of Rochester attended. All interested in supporting and advocating for the underlying affects of SCD.

• Networking with the right people, we learn that a lot of individuals have the same mission in sight. All Warriors have a personal story, sharing similar experiences of discrimination in healthcare towards SCD.