Welcome:
The Partners of the Sickle Cell Consortium are thrilled to present the 11th Annual Sickle Cell Warriors Convention, also known as the Sickle Cell Disease Patient & Educational Symposium. First held in 2013, this Convention has become a cherished 'family reunion' for the sickle cell community. This year, we are excited to be back in person, embracing a dynamic college vibe with our theme: "LEAD THE WAY: FROM PATIENT TO POWERHOUSE."
We're Hybrid
WE ARE IN PERSON & ONLINE! The theme of the 11th Annual Warrior's Convention is "LEAD THE WAY: FROM PATIENT TO POWERHOUSE". The convention aims to bring together warriors, families, caregivers, and healthcare professionals to share knowledge, experiences, and strategies for managing sickle cell disease and achieving excellence in life. Participants can attend workshops, hear from experts, and connect with others in the sickle cell community BOTH in-person and via the virtual space. Many sessions are streamed. Others are solely for the virtual or the in-person audience. Both are fun, fully engaged experieces designed with the audience in mind.
"Lead The Way, From Patient To Powerhouse"
The theme "Lead the Way: From Patient to Powerhouse" celebrates the journey of individuals living with sickle cell disease as they transition from managing their condition to becoming empowered advocates and leaders in their communities. This theme emphasizes personal growth, resilience, and the strength to influence positive change. It highlights the importance of education, self-advocacy, and community support, inspiring participants to take charge of their health and harness their experiences to become powerful voices in the fight against sickle cell disease.
Objective
Overall, the convention seeks to inspire and empower individuals and organizations to continue striving for excellence in the fight against sickle cell disease. We hope you leave this convention feeling empowered and equipped with new knowledge and resources to enhance your quality of life. Thank you for being a part of this community and for your commitment to excellence in the face of adversity.
UMM SO DID YOU REGISTER?
Warrior University
Participants will have the opportunity to attend engaging workshops, listen to inspiring speakers, and connect with others in the sickle cell community. We are reintroducing the Sickle Cell Consortium's Warrior University classes and sessions, adding to the collegiate atmosphere.
Warrior University is a curriculum-based, comprehensive educational program designed to empower individuals affected by sickle cell disease. Through a series of structured courses and workshops, Warrior University provides participants with knowledge and skills in areas such as self-advocacy, healthcare navigation, and community leadership. The initiative aims to transform patients into informed advocates, enabling them to lead efforts to improve sickle cell care and awareness within their communities.
Agenda
The agenda features four days of impactful events, including presentations, workshops, community conversations, and more in the areas of Creative Arts, Physical Health & Education, Health Sciences & Research, and Social Sciences.
Highlights include the Sickle Cell T3 Expo, the Sickle Cell Royal Ball, the Powerhouse HBCU-Style Homecoming, and the Warrior All-Stars Family Game Night.
We have something for everyone, with dedicated sessions for men, young adults, children, caregivers, and trait carriers. We are also focusing on newly diagnosed families, ensuring that no one is left behind. Our goal is to empower and inspire individuals and organizations to continue striving for excellence in the fight against sickle cell disease.
A History Of Hope
First held in 2013, this Convention has become a cherished 'family reunion' for the sickle cell community and remains a major convention designed, created, and hosted entirely by the sickle cell patient warrior and family community. Our theme for this year, "Lead the Way: From Patient to Powerhouse," captures the essence of our journey and transformation.
The Convention began as a small gathering of families and rapidly grew into an annual community tradition. The 2023 Convention boasted nearly 600 participants from around the world.
Find Your Tribe
New this year, we are focused on helping families with newly diagnosed warriors attend Convenion. Our goal is to help those who may feel isolated, having received this new diagnosis, to find their tribe. This convention is where everyone is encouraged to connect with your warrior siblings, our elders, and find our village. We hope you leave feeling empowered, equipped with new knowledge, and resources to enhance your quality of life. Thank you for being a part of this incredible community and for your unwavering commitment to excellence in the face of adversity.