7th Annual 24-Hour World Sickle Cell Day Marathon to Address Global Inequities in Care

In recognition of World Sickle Cell Day, Cayenne Wellness Center and the Global Alliance of Sickle Cell Disease Organizations (GASCDO) will host the 7th Annual 24-Hour World Sickle Cell Day Marathon on June 19, 2026. The free virtual event, streamed live for 24 hours, aims to unite patients, caregivers, advocates, healthcare professionals, researchers, policymakers, and community leaders from around the world for a full day of education, awareness, advocacy, and action.

This year's marathon is centered around the theme "Closing the Survival Gap: Equity in Sickle Cell Care," highlighting persistent disparities in access to diagnosis, treatment, mental health services, research opportunities, and quality care experienced by individuals living with sickle cell disease globally. World Sickle Cell Day, recognized annually on June 19, seeks to increase public awareness and understanding of sickle cell disease and the challenges faced by patients, families, and caregivers worldwide.

Throughout the 24-hour event, attendees will hear from global experts and community leaders representing multiple countries and regions. Sessions will address topics including healthcare equity, mental health, caregiver experiences, legislative advocacy, blood donation and stem cell registries, data collection, media representation, and innovations in sickle cell care. Featured sessions include: Warrior Speaks, featuring individuals living with sickle cell disease sharing their personal journeys; SCD Shaping Siblings, a panel exploring how sickle cell disease impacts siblings and family dynamics; The Role of a Caregiver and the Fight Against SCD; Mental Health and Sickle Cell Disease; and Closing the Survival Gap in Sickle Cell Disease: From Crisis Care to Chronic, Continuous Care, featuring international leaders in sickle cell medicine and advocacy. Community engagement activities, support groups, author conversations, and patient storytelling sessions are also planned.

"This event was created to ensure that people affected by sickle cell disease know they are not alone," said Dr. Carolyn Rowley, Founder and Executive Director of Cayenne Wellness Center. "By bringing together voices from across the globe, we can elevate awareness, strengthen advocacy efforts, and push for the equitable care every person living with sickle cell disease deserves."

The event is made possible through the support of its sponsors, including Advocate Sponsor Agios Pharmaceuticals and Community Sponsor Fulcrum Therapeutics. The marathon welcomes individuals living with sickle cell disease, caregivers, healthcare professionals, researchers, nonprofit organizations, policymakers, and community supporters. Registration is free and open to the public at https://rebrand.ly/wscd2026. More information is available at the event website: https://sicklecellday.com.