World Sickle Cell Day 2025
World Sickle Cell Day 2025 was commemorated on Thursday, June 19, under the global theme, “Global Action, Local Impact: Empowering Communities for Effective Self-Advocacy.” In Jamaica, CAIHR’s Sickle Cell Unit led a full day of impactful activities dedicated to enhancing care, support and education for persons living with Sickle Cell Disease (SCD).
Celebrating with Colour and Care
The SCU was transformed into a vibrant and welcoming space through creative décor in red, gold, and black, and the rolling out of the red carpet, symbolizing the resilience and unity of the sickle cell community. Decorations were skilfully arranged by Nicelikkletingz, while staff members wore coordinated white shirts branded by Sun Island Jamaica, presenting a polished and unified team presence throughout the day.
Radio Broadcast – News Talk 93 FM
A highlight of the day was the Outside Broadcast aired live on News Talk 93 FM, hosted by Raymond Pryce. This special segment was supported by the Ministry of Health and Wellness (MOHW) through the Sickle Cell Technical Working Group and offered a national platform for raising awareness, celebrating advocates, and educating the public on the realities of SCD in Jamaica.
Segment Highlights & Guest Interviews
The broadcast featured an engaging line-up of professionals, advocates, and individuals with lived experiences:
- Professor Monika Asnani, Director, SCU: Overview of SCU: Patient Care, Education, and Research
- Dr. Patrice Simmonds-Brooks, Medical Officer: Managing SCD and the S.T.E.P Programme
- Dr. Carol Lord, Programme Development Officer and Public Health Specialist – MOHW: Newborn Screening and Early Childhood Care: Current Status and Plans
- Ms. Camille Daley, Co-founder, Sickle Cell Support Foundation of Jamaica (SCSFJ): Raising Awareness through the SCSFJ
- Patients (SCD Warriors): Ted Heaven, Mishcah Hamilton, and Keino Ward – Personal Stories of Strength
- Dr. Zachary Ramsay and Dr. Angela Rankine-Mullings: Neurological Complications of SCD
- Parents: Mrs. Sylvena Ward and Mr. Dex Graham: Perspectives on Parenting Children with SCD
- Andrea Hall, Shak’s Hope Foundation: Community-Based Support and Advocacy
- Nurse Rachel Bartlett: Nursing Perspectives on SCD Care
- Professor Jennifer Knight-Madden: Tribute to Professor Graham Serjeant’s Legacy
- Professor Marshall Tulloch-Reid, Director, CAIHR: Institutional Commitment to SCD Research and Advocacy
World Sickle Cell Day 2025 was a heartfelt and empowering observance that brought together patients, families, healthcare professionals, and community supporters under one shared mission: to improve the lives of those affected by SCD in Jamaica.
The event was a true testament to what can be achieved through collaboration, compassion, and a strong sense of purpose. From thoughtful decorations to informative discussions and touching personal stories, every detail contributed to raising awareness and affirming the dignity of individuals living with sickle cell disease.
As the national prevalence of the sickle cell trait remains at approximately 10%, continued efforts in screening, advocacy, education, and support remain critically important.
Let us then encourage and advocate for our nation's people to get tested for Sickle Cell Disease. “One Test, Better Future” – One test can strengthen generations.
