Howard University Alumni Club of Greater Washington DC

September is Sickle Cell Awareness Month! 
Please join us, the Adeyemi Family, in raising funds to provide comprehensive medical care, research, and education to individuals living with sickle cell disease. Funds raised will go directly to Howard University's Center for Sickle Cell Disease. Information about Howard's Center for Sickle Cell Disease and its services can be found at www.sicklecell.howard.edu. 


What is Sickle Cell?
Sickle cell is a blood disorder passed down from parents to children. It is characterized by sickle or crescent-shaped red blood cells that are unable to carry oxygen sufficiently through the body, causing a range of complications.

Normally, red blood cells are round and flexible and can travel easily through blood vessels; however, in people with sickle cell disease, their red blood cells transform into brittle, sticky and crescent (or sickle) shaped cells called sickle cells.

Due to their shape and consistency, sickle cells become unable to move freely through small blood vessels, which can block or slow down blood flow. This loss of blood flow causes a shortage of oxygen to the affected body parts and organs, which can lead to extreme pain, damage to organs and several other complications. (source: Sickle Cell 101, www.sc101.org) 


Why We Care
Although we both had heard of sickle cell before, our desire to learn more about the blood disorder came shortly after the birth of our son, Olutayo aka Tayo. A couple of days after Tayo was born, we were informed that his newborn screening results showed that he tested positive for Hemoglobin SC, a form of sickle cell inherited when one parent has sickle cell gene and the other has a mutated hemoglobin. 

We are grateful that Tayo has experienced no discomfort, pain, or any type of medical emergency related to sickle cell. Some individuals with sickle cell live a full life completely asymptomatic (never experiencing symptons) while others deal with frequent pain crises and other complications.

We are remaining steadfast in our belief that God is sovereign, and that our son Tayo will live a full life of joy that brings honor to His name. 

In recognition of Sickle Cell Awareness Month and in celebration of Tayo's 1st Birthday (September 1), we invite you to join us in raising funds and spreading awareness about sickle cell disease. Donations of any amount are appreciated - $1, $10, $100. 

Note: This is NOT  a fundraiser for Tayo's care or any of his medical expenses. 

100% of donations will go directly to Howard University's Center for Sickle Cell Disease  which provides free sickle cell screenings, medical care, and education to affected individuals.  Our goal is to spread awareness and help others who live with the blood disorder. 


THANK YOU!!!

- Tolu, Emerald, & Tayo Adeyemi