International Virtual Event to Spotlight Lived Experience, Advocacy, Research, Mental Health, and Global Solutions on June 19
GLENDALE, CA, June 18, 2026 /24-7PressRelease/ — In recognition of World Sickle Cell Day, Cayenne Wellness Center and the Global Alliance of Sickle Cell Disease Organizations (GASCDO) will host the 7th Annual 24-Hour World Sickle Cell Day Marathon on June 19, 2026, bringing together patients, caregivers, advocates, healthcare professionals, researchers, policymakers, and community leaders from around the world for a full day of education, awareness, advocacy, and action.
The free virtual event will be streamed live for 24 hours and is centered around the 2026 theme, “Closing the Survival Gap: Equity in Sickle Cell Care.” The theme highlights persistent disparities in access to diagnosis, treatment, mental health services, research opportunities, and quality care experienced by individuals living with sickle cell disease across the globe.
World Sickle Cell Day is recognized annually on June 19 to increase public awareness and understanding of sickle cell disease and the challenges faced by patients, families, and caregivers worldwide.
Throughout the 24-hour event, attendees will hear from global experts and community leaders representing multiple countries and regions. Sessions will address topics including healthcare equity, mental health, caregiver experiences, legislative advocacy, blood donation and stem cell registries, data collection, media representation, and innovations in sickle cell care.
Featured sessions include:
Warrior Speaks, featuring individuals living with sickle cell disease sharing their personal journeys and perspectives on equitable care.
SCD Shaping Siblings, a panel exploring how sickle cell disease impacts siblings and family dynamics.
The Role of a Caregiver and the Fight Against SCD, highlighting the voices and experiences of caregivers from around the world.
Mental Health and Sickle Cell Disease, examining the emotional and psychological impact of living with a chronic illness.
Closing the Survival Gap in Sickle Cell Disease: From Crisis Care to Chronic, Continuous Care, featuring international leaders in sickle cell medicine and advocacy.
Community engagement activities, support groups, author conversations, and patient storytelling sessions.
“This event was created to ensure that people affected by sickle cell disease know they are not alone,” said Dr. Carolyn Rowley, Founder and Executive Director of Cayenne Wellness Center. “By bringing together voices from across the globe, we can elevate awareness, strengthen advocacy efforts, and push for the equitable care every person living with sickle cell disease deserves.”
The event is made possible through the support of its sponsors, including Advocate Sponsor Agios Pharmaceuticals and Community Sponsor Fulcrum Therapeutics, whose commitment helps amplify education, awareness, and community engagement efforts within the sickle cell community.
The marathon welcomes:
Individuals living with sickle cell disease
Caregivers and family members
Healthcare professionals
Researchers and students
Nonprofit organizations
Policymakers and advocates
Community supporters and allies
Registration is free and open to the public.
Register:
Event Website:
About Cayenne Wellness Center
Cayenne Wellness Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for individuals and families affected by sickle cell disease through education, advocacy, community engagement, and access to supportive resources. ollow Cayenne Wellness Center at (CayenneWellness.org), facebook.com/CayenneWellness, Instagram at instagram.com/StacCalifornia, X (formerly known as Twitter) at (@CayenneWellness).
About GASCDO
The Global Alliance of Sickle Cell Disease Organizations (GASCDO) is an international network committed to strengthening collaboration among sickle cell organizations worldwide and advancing equitable care, awareness, advocacy, and support for individuals living with sickle cell disease. Follow GASCDO at: Website: globalscd.org, Instagram: @global.scd.orgs, Facebook: Global Alliance of Sickle Cell Disease Organizations, Twitter/X: @globalscdorgs
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