Cayenne Wellness Center and the Global Alliance of Sickle Cell Disease Organizations (GASCDO) will host the 7th Annual 24-Hour World Sickle Cell Day Marathon on June 19, 2026, a free virtual event aimed at uniting voices across continents to address disparities in sickle cell care. The marathon, streamed live for 24 hours, centers on the 2026 theme 'Closing the Survival Gap: Equity in Sickle Cell Care,' highlighting persistent inequities in diagnosis, treatment, mental health services, research, and quality care for individuals with sickle cell disease worldwide.
World Sickle Cell Day, recognized annually on June 19, seeks to increase public awareness of sickle cell disease and the challenges faced by patients, families, and caregivers. This year's marathon will feature global experts, community leaders, and individuals from multiple countries addressing topics such as healthcare equity, mental health, caregiver experiences, legislative advocacy, blood donation and stem cell registries, data collection, media representation, and innovations in care.
Featured sessions include 'Warrior Speaks,' where individuals living with sickle cell disease share personal journeys; 'SCD Shaping Siblings,' exploring family dynamics; 'The Role of a Caregiver and the Fight Against SCD,' highlighting caregiver voices; 'Mental Health and Sickle Cell Disease,' examining emotional impacts; and 'Closing the Survival Gap in Sickle Cell Disease: From Crisis Care to Chronic, Continuous Care,' featuring international leaders in medicine and advocacy. Community engagement activities, support groups, author conversations, and patient storytelling sessions are also planned.
'This event was created to ensure that people affected by sickle cell disease know they are not alone,' said Dr. Carolyn Rowley, Founder and Executive Director of Cayenne Wellness Center. 'By bringing together voices from across the globe, we can elevate awareness, strengthen advocacy efforts, and push for the equitable care every person living with sickle cell disease deserves.'
The marathon is supported by sponsors including Advocate Sponsor Agios Pharmaceuticals and Community Sponsor Fulcrum Therapeutics, whose contributions amplify education and community engagement. Registration is free and open to the public at this link. More information is available on the event website.
The event welcomes individuals living with sickle cell disease, caregivers, healthcare professionals, researchers, students, nonprofit organizations, policymakers, advocates, and community supporters. By fostering global collaboration, the marathon aims to drive actionable change in sickle cell care and close the survival gap that disproportionately affects marginalized communities.
