North Alabama Sickle Cell Foundation, Inc.
“Break The Sickle Cycle”
How It Works
If each parent carries one normal hemoglobin gene and one sickling gene, a child of such parents has one chance in four of inheriting the sickling gene from both parents, thus developing sickle cell anemia.
Is It Treatable?
There is hope! Extensive research is being conducted at this very moment to control and eradicate these disorders.
Do I Have It?
A simple blood test will detect sickle cell trait. Newborn screening programs enable physicians to detect the trait or disease in infants and to recommend that other family members be tested for the gene as well.
Why Me?
When a person has too much of the abnormal hemoglobin S, it causes the cell to sickle, or change to a sickle-like shape. Many people living with these disorders lead productive lives.
Feel Like You’re Alone?
We Are Here to Help!
The NASCF support group consists of families and friends of Sickle Cell clients for the purpose of providing a vehicle by which these families may get to know each other to discuss a common problem, and to mutually support each other and respond to emotional needs created by a chronic illness. Please contact the Foundation for more information.
Sickle Cell 101
One in every ten African-Americans has sickle cell trait, and one in five-hundred has sickle cell disease.
One in every 100 Hispanic-Americans has sickle cell trait, and 1 in 1000-1400 has sickle cell disease.
In the United States, approximately 100,000 people have sickle cell disease, and 2 million people have sickle cell trait.
Sickle cell affects people of many ethnicities, including those of African, Middle Eastern, Latino, Asian, Indian, and Mediterranean decent. However, it disproportionately affects African-Americans.
How Can I Help?
The North Alabama Sickle Cell Foundation has several ways for you to get involved. See the list beside or check out our Get Involved Page for more details!
Donate
We would like to express our deep appreciation to all contributors for their commitment and generosity as we work toward making a difference in the lives of the many children, adults and families affected by this painful disease.
Volunteer
Volunteers are always needed! If you are interested in volunteer opportunities with the North Alabama Sickle Cell Foundation, Inc., please send an email with your name and contact information to pthompson@sicklecellna.org or call us at (256) 536-2723.
Combined Federal Campaign (CFC)
Are you a Federal Employee? Want to contribute to the North Alabama Sickle Cell Foundation? Contribute through the Combined Federal Campaign. Our CFC # is 20705.
Alabama State Combined Campaign (SCC)
Are you an Alabama state Employee? Want to contribute to the Norh Alabama Sickle Cell Foundation? Contribute through the State Combined Campaign. Our SCC # is 031497.