Clear information, without judgment.
Clear information and practical resources for warriors, families, caregivers, and allies. Each guide is short, written in plain language, and links to the public-health source it came from.
These pages are community education. They do not replace your care team. For a medical emergency, call 911.
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A father and his young daughter reading a printed booklet together at a kitchen counter, she points at the page, he smiles. Morning light, uncluttered background. Bright, clean lifestyle photograph, soft natural daylight, light and uncluttered background with plenty of open space, genuine smiles and movement, candid and unposed, true-to-life skin tones, one small pop of red in wardrobe or props, shallow depth of field. No text, no logos, no watermarks, no hospital branding.
Start with what you need today
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A nurse in plain navy scrubs sitting beside a young adult patient in a bright, calm clinic room, both looking at a tablet, relaxed posture, no medical procedures shown. Wide frame. Bright, clean lifestyle photograph, soft natural daylight, light and uncluttered background with plenty of open space, genuine smiles and movement, candid and unposed, true-to-life skin tones, one small pop of red in wardrobe or props, shallow depth of field. No text, no logos, no watermarks, no hospital branding.
Understanding Sickle Cell Disease
Sickle cell disease is a group of inherited red blood cell disorders. Red blood cells become hard, sticky, and C-shaped. They die early and can block blood flow, which causes pain and other serious problems.
Sickle Cell Trait
One sickle cell gene and one normal gene. Most people with trait have no symptoms, and can still pass the gene on.
Newly Diagnosed Families
First questions to ask, what early appointments look like, and who can walk with you.
Living with Sickle Cell
Day-to-day life, keeping up with care, and planning ahead.
Youth and Young Adults
School, identity, and moving from pediatric to adult care.
Artlist prompt
A grandmother braiding her granddaughter's hair in a living room, both smiling, afternoon light. Wide frame. Bright, clean lifestyle photograph, soft natural daylight, light and uncluttered background with plenty of open space, genuine smiles and movement, candid and unposed, true-to-life skin tones, one small pop of red in wardrobe or props, shallow depth of field. No text, no logos, no watermarks, no hospital branding.
Caregiver Support
For parents, partners, siblings, and friends who carry the load alongside a warrior.
School and Workplace Resources
Accommodations, and how to talk with teachers and employers.
Mental Health and Wellness
Caring for your mind while you care for your body.
Clinical Trials and Research
What a clinical trial is, questions worth asking, and where to look.
Frequently Asked Questions
Short answers to the questions we hear most.
Trait and disease are not the same thing
Sickle cell trait
A person inherits one sickle cell gene and one normal gene. People with trait usually do not have any of the symptoms of sickle cell disease. They can pass the gene to their children.
CDC: What Is Sickle Cell Trait?Sickle cell disease
A person inherits two genes, one from each parent, that code for abnormal hemoglobin. It is present at birth. Symptoms range from mild to severe.
CDC: About Sickle Cell DiseaseWhen both parents have sickle cell trait
For each child, there is a 1 in 4 chance of sickle cell disease, a 1 in 2 chance of sickle cell trait, and a 1 in 4 chance of neither.
Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. A blood test can show whether you carry the trait. Ask your doctor or clinic.
Questions we hear most
Have one we missed? Ask us, or ask SKY using the button on any page.
Is sickle cell disease contagious?
No. Sickle cell disease is inherited. A child is born with it when they receive a gene for abnormal hemoglobin from each parent. You cannot catch it from another person.
How do I find out if I have sickle cell trait?
A blood test can tell you. Ask your doctor or clinic about testing.
Does Voices for Sickle Cell give medical advice?
No. We share community education and point to trusted resources. For questions about symptoms, medication, or treatment, talk with your healthcare provider. For urgent medical concerns, call 911.
Where does this information come from?
We summarize and link to public-health and patient-advocacy sources, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, and the Sickle Cell Disease Association of America. Every guide names its source.
How can I connect with other families?
Find a local group or chapter near you, or start one. You can also read and share stories in Community Voices.
Trusted sources we link to
CDC
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Plain-language facts, fact sheets, and data on sickle cell disease and trait.
Visit CDCNHLBI
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. Causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and living with sickle cell disease.
Visit NHLBISCDAA
Sickle Cell Disease Association of America. National advocacy, a clinical trial finder, and member organizations by state.
Visit SCDAANothing about our community without our community.
Stay close to the work
Stories, events, and ways to act. A few emails a month.
Voices forSickle Cell
To raise awareness, amplify voices, and support the Sickle Cell community through education, advocacy, and collaboration.
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Voices for Sickle Cell provides community education and resource information. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For urgent medical concerns, contact your healthcare provider or call 911.
SKY cannot give medical advice. For symptoms or treatment questions, contact your care team. In an emergency, call 911.