Cayenne Wellness Center and Children's Foundation is commemorating 25 years of service to California's sickle cell disease community with a star-studded fundraising gala. The event marks a quarter-century of providing advocacy, education, and care for individuals and families impacted by this genetic blood disorder, which affects approximately 100,000 Americans, primarily of African descent.
The organization's 25th Anniversary Fundraising Gala will feature live musical performances by Dessy and Ric'Key, with special appearances by television personality KiKi Shepard, NBA legend Byron Scott, and comedian Lester Barrie. The program will be hosted by emcees Dexter Darden and J Snow, creating what organizers describe as an evening of energy, warmth, and community spirit.
Beyond the celebrity appearances, the gala serves as a tribute to resilience and collective progress in sickle cell disease management. Proceeds will support Cayenne Wellness Center's mental health and wellness initiatives, education programs, and community-based resources, reinforcing the organization's belief that healing extends beyond clinical care. This approach addresses the comprehensive needs of individuals living with sickle cell disease, which can include chronic pain, organ damage, and psychological challenges.
Founded in 2000, Cayenne Wellness Center and Children's Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to improving quality of life for California's sickle cell community. Through expert, unbiased programming, the organization advances education, advocacy, and awareness for healthcare providers, patients, caregivers, and the broader community. The organization maintains a strong grassroots foundation and commitment to health equity, positioning itself as a trusted leader in sickle cell support.
The gala's success is supported by corporate partnerships that reflect growing pharmaceutical industry engagement with sickle cell disease. Pfizer serves as the Platinum Sponsor, while Agios and Fulcrum Therapeutics participate as Gold Sponsors. Novo Nordisk contributes as the Silver Sponsor, collectively strengthening efforts to advance health equity and comprehensive care. These partnerships signal increasing recognition of sickle cell disease as a priority area for medical innovation and community support.
For those interested in learning more about the organization's work, additional information is available through its website at https://CayenneWellness.org. The center's Sanctuary provides a haven for healing, calm, and community, reflecting its holistic approach to supporting individuals with sickle cell disease through both medical and psychosocial interventions.
