No convention is complete without a gala, and the 46th annual Sickle Cell Disease Association of America convention was no different! The Unity Soiree Gala was a star-studded, Latin-American themed event held at the luxurious Hyatt Regency-Baltimore Inner Harbor in downtown Baltimore, Maryland.
The experience included a red carpet, full bar, and multiple photo booths, creating an electric, exclusive and elegant atmosphere all in one. Some of the notable names that were present include entertainer Jordin Sparks, actor Dexter Darden, model London Knight, Senators Cory Booker and Tim Scott, sponsors of House Bill H.R.2410 even video called in, to name a few!
The diverse range of presenters and special guests goes to show just how far-reaching the effects of Sickle Cell disease are, everyone can be affected directly or indirectly. Other notable audience members included representatives from Pfizer, Novartis and the National Institutes of Health (NIH).
The gala included a reception dinner with an elegant four-course meal, while presenters awarded honors to those making an impact in the battle against Sickle Cell disease. Jordin Sparks delivered apowerful address to the audience, sharing her story of her stepsister who recently lost her battle with Sickle Cell. Actor and celebrity ambassador, Dexter Darden gave insights from his personal battle with Sickle Cell, and showed that the disease does not have to define you or limit your possibilities.
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In addition to powerful testimonials, the gala was also an opportunity to raise money for the Sickle Cell Disease Association of America who surpassed their ten thousand dollar goal. News of the passing of Bill H.R.2410 through the House of Representatives, which aims to improve sickle cell disease treatment, research, monitoring, and prevention was another highlight of the evening.
This legislation aims to create a National Sickle Cell Disease Research, Surveillance, Prevention, and Treatment program to allow HHS to issue grants for collecting demographic data, fund initiatives and further prevention and treatment. The passing of the bill through the House shows that the work done on behalf of the Sickle Cell community is not going unnoticed, and that awareness about the disease is growing.
This is an important milestone that brings the Bill one step closer becoming law!
As the last awards were granted and the final presenters spoke, the dance floor opened up with a live performance from Joe Falero and full band, bringing Caribbean vibes right to downtown Baltimore! Providers, advocates, and Warriors all partied side by side truly highlighting the theme of the convention “Celebrating Diversity Within The Sickle Cell Community”.
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Connections were made, lives we inspired and the overall mission of the Sickle Cell Disease Association of America was advanced.
The annual convention is a beacon of light and hope for the Sickle Cell community, showing that there is strength in collaboration and that the disease is not a death sentence.
Dr. Kevin Kinney, board certified and licensed Chiropractic Physician featured on INSIDER.com, TheTodayShow.com & BlackDoctorsMatter.org. Connect with Dr. Kev at drkevinkinney.com or @DrDuval904
