Cayenne Wellness Center to Host 16th Annual Sickle Cell Disease Educational Summit

The Cayenne Wellness Center will host its 16th Annual Sickle Cell Disease Educational Summit from September 18-21, 2024. The four-day hybrid event, themed 'Unpacking Sickle Cell: One Warrior At A Time,' aims to address various aspects of sickle cell disease and trait awareness. The summit will be held both virtually and in-person in Torrance, CA, expecting over 1,000 virtual attendees and approximately 200 in-person participants.

Designed for healthcare professionals, educators, social workers, students, individuals with sickle cell disease, their families, and the wider community, the summit seeks to foster empowerment through knowledge-sharing and community engagement. Attendees will have the opportunity to participate in lectures, discussions, and interactive sessions to enhance their understanding of sickle cell disease and trait.

The summit will cover a range of topics over its four-day agenda. The first day will focus on FDA-approved therapies, pipeline treatments, and curative options. The second day will emphasize advocacy, emergency room experiences, incarcerated care, nurse training, sickle cell trait education, newborn screening, and will include a Celebration of Life ceremony. Keynote sessions, tributes to esteemed figures, and specialized sessions for nurses, patients, and psychosocial considerations will take place on the third day. The final day will feature additional keynote sessions with patient-focused and physician-focused tracks covering various aspects of living with or treating sickle cell disease.

A highlight of the summit will be the 'Nod to Naz' Traveling Exhibit, brought by the Sickle Cell Disease Association of America Inc. and funded by Agios Pharmaceuticals with support from Vertex Pharmaceuticals. The exhibit showcases the artwork of the late Hertz Nazaire, an artist known for his advocacy and 'Finding Your Colors' adult coloring book series. Attendees who only wish to view the exhibit can register here.

The summit will also pay tribute to 'Golden Warriors,' individuals who have lived with sickle cell disease for over 70 years. Additionally, a self-care session will be part of the Patient-Focused Track, emphasizing the importance of self-care for those with sickle cell disease.

The event will conclude with a benefit concert featuring Matt Jamele and the Jammin' Jellies. Proceeds from the concert will aid individuals living with sickle cell disease who require emergency assistance with housing, utilities, food, and more.

The Cayenne Wellness Center, established in 2000, is a non-profit organization committed to improving the quality of life for individuals diagnosed with sickle cell disease in California. The center provides education and awareness for healthcare providers, patients, and the general public, while advocating for the sickle cell community.