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The Crescent Foundation
The Crescent Foundation is a solutions-focused organization with the sole purpose of serving the Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) community.
Metamorphidi LLC proudly stands with the Crescent Foundation and the intentions driving thisĀ initiative. The organization will receive 100%Ā of your donations and is tax deductible.
As a Sickle Cell Warrior myself this foundation is truly near and dear to my heart as they have personally assisted me with their advocation services.
Additionally, the Crescent Foundation has served hundreds of Sickle Cell Warriors across the United States and beyond. Their commitment to the SCD community is unwavering and their initiatives have made a true difference in the SCD space.
The Crescent Foundation is dedicated to providing assistance to those affected by Sickle Cell Disease in the form of advocacy, mentorship, and support. The organization reaches out to SCD Warriors offering assistance with medical navigation, social security assistance, insurance coverage, health navigation, and more. Most importantly, the Crescent Foundation offers emotional support to those struggling with SCD.
About Sickle Cell Anaemia
The Red Blood Cell Sickling Process
Polymerization is a sickling process of the red blood cells. Though silent, the damage caused may lead to organ damage in the long run. Red blood cells (RBCs) deliver oxygen to every part of the body that needs it, including bones, organs, and tissues. This essential task is hindered when the RBCs sickle.
The Sickling Stages
1. Vaso-Occlusion (VOCS)
The first stage of the sickling process causes the blockage of blood vessels. The main sign is a pain crisis, during which there is pain, typically in the bones, joints, stomach, and chest.
2. Hemolysis
Hemolysis defines the process by which red blood cells break down. After breaking down, RBCs release a yellow substance known as bilirubin into the bloodstream, which can cause the skin and eyes to turn yellow - jaundice.
This triggers a response to create new (baby) red blood cells, reticulocytes, to replace the broken-down RBCs. As such, high levels of bilirubin or reticulocytes are among the main signs of hemolysis.
3. Anemia
After hemolysis, the resulting significant reduction in the count of red blood cells leads to anemia. The main signs of anemia are feeling tired and weak, difficulty thinking and concentrating, and less ability to do physical activities.
Even without pain, sickle cell disease causes damage to the body 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Hemolysis and anemia are associated with high blood pressure, risk of stroke, and brain, lung, and heart damage.