I am climbing Kilimanjaro – yes, you read that correctly.

In 2002, when we were expecting our first child, our physician required screening for sickle trait. I had no idea then how privileged I was to have access to that level of care and consideration. I was even less informed about the severity of sickle cell disease (SCD) and the extent to which the disease could both materially change the course of someone’s life. Over the past 15 years the energy and financial resources behind advancing treatments and potential cures for SCD has been welcomed by a community that has often been neglected by the material advancements in science. Yet as we sit here today those energies stand to benefit only those who live in the wealthiest countries. In less fortunate countries where SCD abounds, access to the screening I took for granted does not really exist. Nor does newborn screening - an inexpensive test that is literally the difference between life and death. An estimated 50-80% of children born with SCD in Africa will die before the age of 5 because they go undiagnosed and lack access to basic treatment.

I have also learned a great deal about SCD during that time.  That knowledge has inspired me to accept an invitation to join the Timmerman Traverse in September 2024 to support Sickle Forward. Sickle Forward is dedicated to transforming the lives of individuals affected by SCD in low- and middle-income countries by championing access to timely diagnosis and basic treatment.

Most of you know I do not have an outdoor bone in my body. But this mission is simply too important not to embrace the challenge, push my boundaries and take risks. I am reminded that the trek to Kilimanjaro's summit would likely be impossible for any sickle patient to ever even contemplate – strenuous activity at such high altitudes could trigger painful pain crises. That my body, with training and preparation, can undertake this journey is a privilege I must embrace.

Thank you in advance for supporting my goal of raising $50,000 for the Timmerman Traverse! Together we can reach new heights for individuals with sickle cell disease!