Among the estimated 7 out of 10 Jamaicans who suffer from non-communicable diseases (NCDs) because of lifestyle choices, are adults and children living with Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) through hereditary means, and for no fault of their own, who need urgent help.

For people with SCD, life is far from normal. The debilitating manifestations of recurring pain episodes, leg ulcers, hearing loss, vision problems, acute chest syndrome and stroke, accompanied by depression and anxiety are commonplace for thousands who endure lack and poverty because they are unable to work and care for themselves.

Your gift can disrupt their pain and suffering and make them more resilient to SCD. Partner with the efforts of the Sickle Cell Unit at CAIHR to care for over 3,000 patients, who make up to 9,000 visits a year at its Clinic, which offers at minimal cost, primary care and secondary acute day-care service to emergencies and those in painful crises.

The CAIHR Sickle Cell Unit is also a strong advocate for Newborn Screening for Sickle Cell Disease as a policy imperative for the region, and for the disease to be classified as a disability in order to increase the employability of more patients into the workplace.