Palm Beach County residents facing the daily hardships of sickle cell disease have a new ally in the Sickle Cell Foundation of Palm Beach County and the Treasure Coast. Founded more than five decades ago by health activist and former West Palm Beach mayor Eva Mack, the nonprofit continues to grow its outreach, offering counseling, nutrition guidance, teen focus groups and professional pain‑management therapy.
Local youth benefit from program services
Seventeen‑year‑old Ticarey Jones, a senior at Inlet Grove Community High School, shared how the foundation’s resources have improved his quality of life. “When I have a sickle cell crisis, it’s very painful. It stops you from walking,” Jones explained. He noted that crises were more frequent in his younger years but have become less common as he has grown older. “I love it. I love it. It gives me a chance to do other stuff that I wouldn’t be able to do without this program,” he added.
Foundation leadership highlights historic need
Shalonda Warren, CEO of the foundation, emphasized the organization’s deep roots in the community. “Eva Mack was instrumental in many community initiatives and understood the importance of a foundation dedicated to sickle cell disease,” Warren said. She also pointed out that Florida ranks second nationally for sickle cell incidence, with the majority of cases concentrated in South Florida.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, roughly 100,000 Americans live with sickle cell disease, and more than 90% of those individuals are African American. Many do not receive recommended health screenings or treatments, underscoring the need for local support networks.
Volunteer effort and upcoming fundraiser
Anessha Hanif, a longtime volunteer who carries the sickle cell trait, has been instrumental in raising awareness and funds. She donates proceeds from the annual Fashion Affair fundraiser to support children’s education. “It’s so important that people understand the trait and the disease both have problems,” Hanif said. “I just wanted everybody to know what’s going on. That’s why I do this show.”
The Fashion Affair fundraiser is scheduled for November 14, 2026, from 2 to 4 p.m., and will feature local designers, live music and opportunities for community members to contribute directly to the foundation’s programs.
How to get involved
Families and individuals interested in counseling, nutrition services, or teen focus groups can contact the foundation through its website at www.sicklecellpbc.org. Volunteers are also welcome to assist with upcoming events, including the Fashion Affair fundraiser.
By providing essential resources and fostering community awareness, the Sickle Cell Foundation of Palm Beach County and the Treasure Coast continues to uphold its mission of improving the lives of those affected by this chronic condition.
Original reporting: WPBF West Palm Beach — read the source article.
