The Cayenne Wellness Center will host its 16th Annual Sickle Cell Disease Educational Summit from September 18-21, 2024, in Torrance, California, with a virtual attendance option available. Themed "Unpacking Sickle Cell: One Warrior At A Time," this four-day hybrid event is expected to draw over 1,000 virtual attendees and 200 in-person participants, including healthcare professionals, educators, social workers, students, individuals with sickle cell disease, and their families. The summit aims to address all aspects of sickle cell disease and trait awareness through a comprehensive educational experience that fosters empowerment via knowledge-sharing and community engagement.
The agenda is structured to cover a wide range of topics crucial to the sickle cell community. The first day will focus on FDA-approved therapies, pipeline treatments, and curative options, providing attendees with current information on medical advancements. Day two will address advocacy, emergency room experiences, incarcerated care, nurse training, sickle cell trait education, and newborn screening, alongside a Celebration of Life ceremony honoring those affected by the disease. The third day features keynote sessions, tributes to esteemed figures in the field, and specialized sessions for nurses, patients, and psychosocial considerations. The final day offers additional keynote sessions with separate tracks for patients and physicians, covering various aspects of living with or treating sickle cell disease.
A highlight of the summit is the Hertz Nazaire 'Nod to Naz' Traveling Exhibit, brought by the Sickle Cell Disease Association of America Inc. This exhibit showcases the artwork of the late Hertz Nazaire, a renowned artist and sickle cell advocate known for his "Finding Your Colors" adult coloring book series, serving as a testament to his enduring impact on the sickle cell community and his ability to express the experiences of living with the disease through art. The summit will also pay tribute to "Golden Warriors," individuals who have lived with sickle cell disease for over 70 years, highlighting the resilience and strength within the community. A self-care session, part of the Patient-Focused Track, will emphasize the importance of personal well-being for those living with sickle cell disease.
In addition to educational sessions, the summit will feature a benefit concert with Matt Jamele and the Jammin' Jellies, with proceeds supporting individuals living with sickle cell disease who need emergency assistance with housing, utilities, and food. This comprehensive event underscores the ongoing need for education, support, and advocacy in the sickle cell community, aiming to foster a deeper understanding of the disease and promote better care and quality of life for those affected. Interested participants can register for the summit at https://cayennewellness.org/scd-educational-summit-2024, with both in-person and virtual attendance options available to ensure wide accessibility.
As sickle cell disease continues to affect millions worldwide, events like this summit play a crucial role in advancing knowledge, improving care, and supporting the sickle cell community. By bringing together diverse perspectives and experiences, the Cayenne Wellness Center's Annual Sickle Cell Disease Educational Summit contributes significantly to ongoing efforts to enhance the lives of those impacted by this challenging condition, reinforcing the importance of community-driven initiatives in healthcare.
