🩺 From Survivor to Nurse Leader—I'm Rewriting the Sickle Cell Story
Hi, my name is Cortney Sanders, and I’m a dedicated healthcare professional, educator, and advocate for the Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) community. I’m also a survivor of the most severe form of SCD—and someone who achieved what once felt impossible: a self-cure using my own cells.
My journey has been filled with pain, resilience, and purpose. And now, I use my voice and experience to educate, uplift, and advocate for others living with this disease.
As a dual-licensed nurse (LPN and RN) and now a Nurse Practitioner (NP) student, I’ve seen both sides of the healthcare system—as a patient and a provider. That perspective drives me to push for equity, compassion, and education in every setting I enter. Whether I’m speaking to medical professionals or mentoring patients, my goal is clear: to raise awareness, change how SCD is understood, and create a better path forward for future generations.
💡 Why This Scholarship Matters
Being awarded the Warrior On The Rise Scholarship is a profound honor. It’s not just support—it’s recognition of the work, lived experience, and vision I bring to this movement.
This scholarship helps me continue my advanced education, expand my impact, and become a more powerful force for clinical care, systemic change, and SCD advocacy. It reminds me that even though my story is rare, it’s one that can inspire others to keep fighting, keep rising, and keep believing.
🌟 Help the Next Warrior Rise
I’m proud to be one of 27 Warrior On The Rise scholars this year—part of a growing wave of students and professionals who are using their lived experiences to create change. In previous years, only 10 students received this scholarship. The growth of this program shows what’s possible when we invest in warriors who lead with both heart and action.
When you support the Warrior On The Rise Scholarship Fund, you’re helping more leaders like me advance their education, amplify their voices, and build a world where Sickle Cell patients are seen, heard, and healed.
Thank you for believing in our mission—and for helping the next warrior rise.
— Cortney
