I am the founder and president of Journey to ExSCellence, a Maryland-based nonprofit dedicated to raising awareness about sickle cell disease and improving the quality of life for those affected. I experienced severe complications from SCD and endured frequent pain crises until participating in a National Institutes of Health clinical trial in March 2018. I received an autologous gene therapy transplant, which significantly reduced my pain and transformed my outlook on life. Now, I advocate for others with sickle cell disease, encouraging them to share their experiences to combat stigma and promote understanding between patients, caregivers, and the medical community.

I am excited to be participating in Summits for Sickle Cell this year and look forward to raising awareness and funds for SCD in Africa along the way!