I vividly remember sitting in the post office parking lot early on a Monday morning. I read the letter that told me about my daughter’s Sickle Cell Disease diagnosis. This was eight days after she was born. To be honest, fear and anxiety won the battle in the parking lot that day. But that was just one battle. Fighting Sickle Cell Disease is a war. I got through that battle in the parking lot and became a conquering advocate. Navigating this process for our daughter has helped me quickly understand many gaps exist between service and care. This is especially true in the area of Sickle Cell Research. Research is a significant issue in care. We believe it would be beneficial to those conquering Sickle Cell Disease. There is beauty in being willing to help others while you conquer your own battles along the way. Since that Monday in the post office parking lot, my family has connected with others facing Sickle Cell Disease. We have also connected with people battling other chronic illnesses. We’ve learned from each other and supported one another while fighting for our kids, loved ones, and ourselves.
Kennedy’s Village is committed to “Reshaping Sickle Cell Disease.”
Sincerely,
Shavonn Burgess, LPC
Co-Founder
Born and raised as a son of the city of Detroit, I know a little something about making a comeback. I’ve seen people struggle to make ends meet. I’ve seen others have to make a choice between food and medication or quality healthcare, but somehow make it through. This shouldn’t be! As a co-founder, I have multiple roles. I am also a husband and father of two, with one child conquering Sickle Cell Disease. My goal is to help those in need. I want to help shape sickle cell initiatives and bridge the gap between research and care. Let’s reshape sickle cell together!
Enthusiastically,
Eric Burgess
Co-Founder