MTS Sickle Cell Foundation Gives Back to Sickle Cell Families in Liberia

MTS Sickle Cell Foundation is spreading holiday cheers to families impacted by Sickle Cell Disease in Liberia, West Africa.

Held at the John F. Kennedy Medical Center in Monrovia on Thursday, December 30th and in partnership with Chronic Care Clinic and HEAL, Inc., the US-based nonprofit organization hosted its inaugural holiday brunch as part of its ongoing efforts to raise awareness, support, and sensitivity surrounding Sickle Cell Disease in Liberia, West Africa.

During the celebration, families enjoyed a delicious brunch, played games, enjoyed beautiful music, and gifts. Speakers at the event included sickle cell patients sharing their experiences of the difficulties they face in navigating life with such a chronic disease in the world's 8th poorest country. Physicians also spoke to the challenges they face in administering to this vulnerable population and their hopes for the future for their patients.

MTS Sickle Cell Foundation was founded by Mapillar Dahn, a Liberian Native, who immigrated to the United States in 1997.

"This is a great moment for the sickle cell community in Liberia and I am very honored to play a small part in it. We must not forget the true champions of today. Dr. Patience D. Franklin, Dr. Joy W. Cole, Dr. Cecelia Joyce Nuta, Lucynthia B Nippy Chea, and so many others have worked tirelessly for years to care for, treat and maintain the health of people living with Sickle Cell Disease in Liberia, often doing so with very little resources. I'm so grateful for their support on the ground and look forward to continuing to work with them in whatever capacity that I can to help support the national sickle cell community in Liberia," Ms. Dahn said.

Sickle Cell Disease is a genetic blood disorder that affects millions around the world. Over 240,000 infants are born with SCD in sub-Saharan Africa annually and an estimated 1,700 of those infants are born in Liberia. 50-90% of children born with Sickle Cell Disease in sub-Saharan Africa die prior to their fifth birthday in huge parts due to lack of screening and access to care.

To learn more about MTS Sickle Cell Foundation and the work that the organization is doing in the sickle cell space, visit their website at www.mythreesicklers.org.