We had an incredible experience yesterday at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta’s 2026 Sickle Cell Education Day!

💚 I had the privilege of moderating “Strong Cells, Big Dreams” with Mary Aliche, Kyle Registre, Dr. Christopher Chambliss, Keieria Barron and Chelsea Uche — and the conversation was everything I hoped it would be. We talked about growing up with sickle cell disease, pursuing big dreams, navigating treatment and research, the difference between protection and limitation, and what strength really means. And when our session ended…the conversation didn’t. More than 30 minutes later, families were still asking questions, sharing experiences, and engaging with the panelists. That says so much. There is a real need for spaces where people impacted by sickle cell can talk openly, ask the questions that don’t always fit into a clinic visit, and feel truly heard. The entire day was filled with education, connection, resources, and community — from early childhood care and transition support to bone marrow transplant, gene therapy, age-based activities, and the resource fair. I’m especially grateful to Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, the Aflac Cancer & Blood Disorders Center, the planning committee, and everyone who helped make this day possible. And to Mary, Kyle, Christopher, Keieria and Chelsea — thank you for bringing such honesty, openness, and heart to the conversation. People impacted by sickle cell don’t only need information. They need spaces to connect, question, and be heard. Yesterday was a beautiful reminder of just how powerful those spaces can be. 💚 #SickleCellEducationDay #SickleCellDisease #SickleCellAwareness #SickleCellAdvocacy