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contact us Volunteer Photo Release Client Feedback WE'RE NOW WORKING REMOTELY TO HELP PROTECT OUR COMMUNITY. PLEASE CALL FOR ASSISTANCE. THANK YOU! If you need assistance, have questions, or would like to partner in SCDAA-MI's work,our staff will be happy to help. Contact Us First Name Last Name Email Phone Type your message here... Thanks for reaching out! Submit Email: info@scdaami.org Detroit/SE Mich: 313-864-4406 or 800-842-0973 Children's Hospital SC Clinic: 313-745-5613 Sickle Cell Trait Counseling: 313-595-0541 School/Job Assistance: Our Address: 18516 James Couzens Fwy. Detroit, Michigan 48235 Hours of Operation: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday - Friday You can also contact our nearest satellite offices: Detroit Area (313) 613-7327 Benton Harbor/Kalamazoo Area: (304) 404-4229 Grand Rapids/Muskegon Area: (616) 788-9816 Jackson/Lansing Area: (517) 249-9528 Saginaw/Flint Area: (989) 372-0256 Photo release Photo/Video Release The Sickle Cell Disease Association of America - Michigan Chapter, Inc. frequently takes photos and video at its events and activities and ask that participants sign a waiver allowing the use of their likeness in publications, our web site, social media sites, and other public forms. You will only need to complete this form once. If at any time you wish to revoke use of your likeness in the future, you must do so in writing. Children under 18 require consent from a parent or guardian. Please contact us with questions. Thank you! Download release form here . Please complete and return to info@scdaami.org

sickle cell treatments While there is no universal cure for sickle cell disease (yet), there are several therapeutic approaches to relieve symptoms, reduce complications, and extend life. Early treatment (by eight weeks) by a hematologist is critical for newborns. Beginning a course of prophylactic penicillin at age two months was a historic intervention in changing the course of childhood sickle cell survival. View our Feb. 29th Treatment Workshop where we discussed all the current treatments available to cure sickle cell. CLICK TO PLAY ON FACEBOOK Part 1 with Dr. Wanda Whitten-Shurney (44 mins) CLICK TO PLAY ON FACEBOOK Part 2 with Dr. Ahmar Zaidi (58 mins) The only cure for sickle cell disease is a bone marrow or stem cell transplant. Most sickle cell disease transplants are currently performed in children who have had complications such as strokes, acute chest crises, and recurring pain crises. These transplants usually use a matched donor. Blood and bone marrow transplants are riskier in adults. Read more Medicines can reduce or alleviate symptoms and complications and prolong life. Penicillin In children who have sickle cell disease, taking penicillin two times a day has been shown to reduce the chance of having a severe infection caused by the pneumococcus bacteria. Newborns need to take liquid penicillin. Older children can take tablets. Many doctors will stop prescribing penicillin after a child has reached the age of 5. Some prefer to continue this antibiotic throughout life, particularly if a person has hemoglobin SS or hemoglobin Sβ0 thalassemia, since people who have sickle cell disease are still at risk. All people who have had surgical removal of the spleen, called a splenectomy, or a past infection with pneumococcus should keep taking penicillin throughout life. Hydroxyurea Hydroxyurea is an oral medicine that has been shown to reduce or prevent several sickle cell disease complications. This medicine was studied in patients who have sickle cell disease, because it was known to increase the amount of fetal hemoglobin (hemoglobin F) in the blood. Increased hemoglobin F provides some protection against the effects of hemoglobin S. Watch Dr. Shurney’s animated video about Hydroxyurea and how it works Endari Approved by the FDA for sickle cell use in 2017, Endari is an oral L-glutamine therapy for sickle cell disease and sickle cell thalassemia that reduces the acute complications of sickle cell disease in adults and children 5 years and older. It works by increasing the amount of glutamine in the blood. The added glutamine is taken up by the defective sickle cells, and when metabolized (broken down) results in the release of antioxidants.Common side effects include constipation, nausea, headache, abdominal pain, cough, pain in the extremities, back pain and chest pain. Patient web site Endari co-pay assistance Adakveo In 2019, the FDA also approved a new medicine to reduce the number of pain crises experienced by adults and children 16 years and older who have sickle cell disease. The medicine, which is given through an IV in the vein, helps prevent blood cells from sticking to blood vessel walls and causing blood flow blockage, inflammation, and pain crises. Possible side effects include nausea, joint pain, back pain, and fever. Patient resources web site Downloadable patient brochure Oxbryta The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved a new medicine in 2019 to treat sickle cell disease in adults and children 12 years and older. The oral medicine prevents red blood cells from forming the sickle shape and binding together. This may decrease the destruction of some red blood cells, which in turn lowers the risk for anemia and improves blood flow to your organs. Possible side effects include headache, diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, fatigue, and fever. Rarely, allergic reactions may occur, causing rashes, hives, or mild shortness of breath. Talk to your doctor about other medicines you take. Patient web site Caregiver tips Downloadable patient information leaflet Transfusions are often used in acute or preventive situations. Transfusions are administered to treat and prevent certain sickle cell disease complications. These transfusions may include: Acute transfusion to treat complications that cause severe anemia. Doctors may also use transfusions when a patient has an acute stroke, in many cases of acute chest crises, and in multi-organ failure. A patient who has sickle cell disease usually receives blood transfusions before surgery, to prevent complications. Red blood cell transfusions to increase the number of red blood cells and provide normal red blood cells that are more flexible than red blood cells with sickle hemoglobin. Regular or ongoing blood transfusions for people who have had an acute stroke, to reduce the chances of having another stroke. Doctors also recommend blood transfusions for children who have abnormal transcranial Doppler (TCD) ultrasound results, because transfusions can reduce the chance of having a first stroke. There are other treatments for specific complications. Be mindful that not all treatments work for everyone. Some people find success with alternative treatments as well, including medical marijuana (be knowledgeable about legalities that may impact school, work and overall health). To stay as healthy as possible, patients should be sure to get regular medical care that includes a pediatrician (for children) or primary care physician (for adults) and a hematologist and work with them to create the best individual care plan. Patients should also live a healthy lifestyle and avoid triggers that may cause a pain crisis. Page sources: NIH: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, FDA.gov, Endari, Adakveo, Oxbryta

An archive of news and media from SCDAA-MI news archive World Sickle Cell Day On Wednesday, June 19, GBT hosted guest speaker Dr. Wanda Whitten-Shurney, the CEO and Medical Director of the Michigan chapter of the Sickle Cell Disease Association of America (SCDAA), as part of its World Sickle Cell Day (WSCD) activities. As part of GBT's support, employees were encouraged to wear their “Hope” T-shirts provided by GBT and designed by artist and SCD activist, Hertz Nazaire. Blood Drive Pictured Michelle Huckaby, SCDAAMI Community Health Worker, Kristal Cobb, SCDAAMI Administrative Assistant, Heather and Tracey Moorehead, Board Members, Anastasia Worthy, SCDAAMI Youth Ambassador and Kym Worthy, SCDAAMI Board Chair. Myths about Sickle Cell Dr. Wanda Whitten-Shurney, CEO and Medical Director of the Sickle Cell Disease Association of America – Michigan Chapter and former SCDAA-MI board member Amyre Makupson discuss myths surrounding sickle cell and facts of the disease .

2019 Photo Gallery 2018 Photo Gallery 2021 photo galleries Awareness Campaign Launch This year for World Sickle Cell Day the Sickle Strong Adult Support Group hosted a lantern release to where we all could shine a light for individual living with sickle cell and to honor the memory of the beautiful ones we loss. Please enjoy these highlights! Thank You! (Is your photo/video missing from this collection? If so, email it to us.)

summer camp Our summer camp experience provides a unique opportunity for our children to gain self-confidence and independence. It also helps parents overcome issues of over protectiveness which may occur when raising a child with a chronic illness. Summer Camp North Star Reach Virtual Fall Family Camp North Star Reach is continuing to keep the health and safety of campers, families, staff and volunteers their top priority. Therefore, they are continuing with virtual Camp-at-Home programming this fall for family camps instead of on-site programming. Below is their fall camp schedule, and a brief online registration form is now live at the Camp-At-Home website .

un/re-used elements Our 2020 Sickle Cell Matters Walk features a Warriors dance challenge and a salute to our Legacy Warriors (ages 50 and up). Warrior Stroll #SickleSlideChallenge Be a part of the Warrior Stroll! New this year, the Warrior Stroll features the #SickleSlide dance challenge to open our Walk Day festivities. Warriors of all ages and abilities are welcome to participate in parts that suit their preference. Watch and learn , perfect your style, and post your video using #SickleSlideChallenge. Salute to Legacy Warriors The 2020 Sickle Cell Matters Walk will also feature a tribute to our Legacy Warriors - individuals with sickle cell who'll be 50 years or older as of Dec. 31, 2020. Sign up to be recognized on our web site, in the day-of-event printed program (must be signed up by Sept. 1, 2020), and from the stage during remarks.

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We are deeply grateful for the generous support of our funders, sponsors and donors. SCDAA-MI is committed to continue delivering dedicated comprehensive services with passion and compassion to help people with sickle cell live their best lives possible as we enlighten the medical establishment and keep reaching for a cure. Thank You Jalen Graham! SCDAAMI is thankful to Jalen Graham (Purdue Football Star, native Detroiter and Cass Technical High School Alum) as he presents proceeds of his #GetSeriousAboutSickleCell t-shirt campaign in memory of his Aunt Leslie Clemons and in honor of all Sickle Cell Warriors! HRSA This Non Profit Program/Organization is supported by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of awards totaling $244,000. With 0 % financed with non-governmental sources. The programming contents are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by HRSA, HHS, or the U.S. Government. For more information, please visit HRSA.gov. ALTRIA Thank you for the grant to support our mission to raise awareness about sickle cell disease. our donors

Your voice matters in the election process. The representatives we choose make decisions that affect access to healthcare, regional transportation, insurance laws, disability protections, prescription pricing and more. Join us as we speak out on behalf of individuals living with sickle cell and the legislation that affects them. OUR ADVOCACY PARTNERS Sickle Cell Disease Association of America Rare Disease Legislative Advocates Every Day Life Foundation Health Can’t Wait Coalition American Society of Hematology ARE YOU READY TO VOTE? To be eligible to vote in Michigan, you must be: A Michigan resident (at the time you register) and a resident of your city or township for at least 30 days (when you vote) A United States citizen At least 18 years of age (when you vote) Not currently serving a sentence in jail or prison Learn more about voting in Michigan here . Check your voter registration status here . Register online here . Absentee voting “Due to the constitutional amendment passed by voters in 2018, all eligible and registered voters in Michigan may request an absent voter ballot without providing a reason. They can visit their local clerk’s office for an absent voter ballot application or download one at Michigan.gov/Vote ” Michigan ballot drop locations You can take your absentee ballot to the drop box in your jurisdiction and track your ballot through the election process. advocacy & legislation Current issues we’re working on include: Securing coverage for new sickle cell treatments (We'll keep you posted!) DO YOU KNOW WHO REPRESENTS YOU? You can click here and enter your address to find your local, state and federal elected officials along with their names and contact information. Use the map to see Michigan's legislative districts . World Sickle Cell Disease Awareness Day in Michigan - June 19, 2020 2020 World Sickle Cell Day received legislative support this year as Rep. Ronnie Peterson introduced House Resolution #280 declaring June 19, 2020 as World Sickle Cell Awareness Day in Michigan. Rep. Peterson also introduced a bill to create a sickle cell license plate for Michigan. The bill received outstanding bi-partisan support. We are deeply grateful for these actions from our elected officials and the members of the Michigan Legislative Black Caucus who were able to join us at the capital. #BlackPatientLivesMatter Vote

get involved Together our tenacity and commitment have greatly brightened the future for sickle cell: comprehensive pediatric care has become a medical standard throughout most of the U.S., allowing patients to pursue college educations, take on dream careers, marry and welcome extended families. At the same time, many challenges remain: awareness among the adult medical community lags behind pediatric expertise at the expense of patient health. Sickle cell still bears the weight of stigma attached to systemic discrimination. While research is on the uptick, treatments are limited. There is no universal cure. Your support matters in our quest for consciousness, equity, and a cure. Please join us today. DONATE The Sickle Cell Disease Association of America - Michigan Chapter thrives on the support of dedicated patients/clients, staff, volunteers, funders, sponsors, donors , and community partners . We've remained committed to our mission of improving the lives of people living with sickle cell disease for 48 years. Give today . ADVOCATE This is an exciting time for the sickle cell community as new treatments have recently become available and interest in research to find a cure has spiked. Yet, insurance hindrances, misplaced opioid restrictions, and ongoing systemic discrimination continue to block access to proper care and threaten the lives of patients. Raise your voice for sickle cell. VOLUNTEER There are always volunteer opportunities at SCDAA-MI for assistance at our annual Sickle Cell Matters Walk, encouraging an increased social media presence, office help, committees, and more. Complete our volunteer form to let us know you're interested, and we'll contact you when opportunities arise.

symptoms& complications Info You Should Know: Symptoms and Complications of Sickle Cell Disease (Although the language here is directed to parents, this list applies to both children and adults with sickle cell. When in doubt, please contact your medical provider or go to the hospital.) NIH NHLBI g uidelines for treating complications Anemia Your baby may have this condition if he/she lacks the number of healthy blood cells required to carry sufficient oxygen to the rest of the body. Some of the most common symptoms include paleness, low energy, breathing problems, and slower growth. Treatment: The doctor will consider the severity of the symptoms to suggest a treatment plan, but they may rely on antibiotics and blood transfusion to treat the condition. Acute Chest Syndrome It could be an extremely painful and serious situation because it restricts blood flow to the lungs. Some common signs and symptoms include chest pain, breathing problems, and fever. Treatment: The doctor may recommend treatment with blood transfusions, antibiotic medicine, pain medicine, and oxygen to help improve breathing. Pain Pain is common and happens when sickled cells restrict blood flow. Pain can be anywhere in the body – it can be in organs and joints as well. The pain may continue for a few hours or extend to days and even weeks. It is important to give your child plenty of fluids, maintain temperature, and keep them from high altitudes to limit pain episodes. Treatment: Some of the most common treatment options include heating pads, prescription pain medicine, OTC pain relievers like ibuprofen, and hydroxyurea to help produce a specific type of hemoglobin. Extended pain requires hospitalization and narcotic medications. Hand-Foot Syndrome A child may experience pain, coldness, or swelling in the feet and hands when the sickle cells affect the blood supply to these limbs. Treatment: The doctor may rely on certain pain-relieving medicine to treat the symptoms. Giving your child plenty of fluids may also help. Splenic Crisis Sometimes, sickled cells accumulate in the spleen and clog it. This leads to swelling that prevents the spleen from filtering blood in the body. Specific signs include weakness, pain on the left side of the belly, and a rapid heart rate. Treatment: The usual treatment option is blood transfusion. The doctor may also consider removing the spleen iif splenic crisis becomes a regular issue. Infection Your child may have to fight with several infections including the infection of the lining of the brain and lung infection. Signs and symptoms include breathing problems, fever, coughing, headaches, and pain in the bones. An oral temperature over 100.3 requires a trip to the emergency room to help prevent bacterial sepsis. Treatment: It is important to prevent an infection from happening by staying up to date on vaccinations. If your child gets an infection, your doctor may recommend some antibiotics to clear the infection. Taking antibiotics regularly may help prevent infections when your baby is between 2 months and 5 years of age. Stroke Those altered red blood cells may restrict blood flow to the brain, which sometimes leads to a stroke. The most common symptoms include weakness on one side of the body, severe headache, and changes in speech, alertness, hearing, or vision. Treatment: Your child's healthcare provider will first notice these symptoms and then ask for an ultrasound, called Doppler ultrasound, to determine your child's risk for stroke. Vision Loss Blindness and other vision problems may happen when these cells block blood supply to your child's eyes. Sometimes, the cells block the blood flow to a specific part of the brain that leads to vision loss. Treatment: A regular eye exam with an ophthalmologist is necessary to avoid such issues, but your doctor may also recommend additional eye treatment to prevent further damage. More on major complications and their treatments from the CDC