Marcus is currently part of something historic. He is one of the first adult patients at Duke University Hospital to receive the Casgevy CRISPR gene editing treatment for sickle cell disease, a groundbreaking therapy that could potentially cure his condition. If you know Marcus, you know he’s usually the one helping everyone else. He’s the protector, the leader, the person who steps up when things get hard. What most people don’t see behind the business posts, the smiles, and the strength is the invisible battle he has been fighting since the day he was born: severe Sickle Cell Disease. Sickle cell has challenged Marcus his entire life. It has meant painful crises, countless hospital stays, and constant battles just to live a normal life. Despite all of that, he has never backed down. Marcus has always pushed forward with strength, determination, and faith. Now he is facing the biggest battle of his life. This procedure is intense and life changing. It involves strong chemotherapy to wipe out his bone marrow before doctors can rebuild his blood with healthy cells. The goal is simple but powerful: a future without sickle cell disease. This journey, however, comes with many challenges. Marcus will remain at Duke Hospital throughout this process as he continues treatment and recovery, while I travel back and forth to support him and manage responsibilities at home. With ongoing travel, time away from work, and daily expenses, the financial burden has become overwhelming. Marcus is someone who is used to helping others, not asking for help himself. But during this time, our focus has to be on his health, healing, and recovery. If Marcus has ever made you smile, supported you, encouraged you, or impacted your life in any way, we humbly ask for your support during this time. Donations will go directly toward housing near the hospital, food, transportation, and other necessities while he undergoes this life changing treatment. Even if you are unable to donate, sharing this page and keeping Marcus in your prayers means the world to us. Marcus has fought his entire life, and he is not backing down now. No retreat. No surrender. We truly believe this journey could change his life and bring hope to so many others forever. Thank you for standing with Marcus during this fight