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Your Voice
Matters
Support, connection, and advocacy training for young warriors progressing to adult care and building their futures.
Why Teen Support Matters
Being a teen with sickle cell comes with unique challenges. You're figuring out who you are, building independence, and planning your future, all while managing a serious health condition. You don't have to do it alone.
You're Figuring Out Who You Are
Being a teen is already complicated. Add sickle cell to the mix, and it can feel overwhelming. You deserve a space where you can be yourself without judgment.
Transition to Adult Care is Scary
Moving from pediatric to adult healthcare is a huge change. You need guidance on how to advocate for yourself and manage your health independently.
Your Peers Don't Always Get It
Friends at school might not understand why you miss class or can't do certain things. Connecting with other young warriors who truly get it makes all the difference.
You Have Big Dreams
Sickle cell doesn't define you. You have goals for college, careers, and your future. We help you build the skills and confidence to chase those dreams.
What We Offer
Programs designed BY and FOR young warriors, because you know what you need better than anyone else.
Teen Warrior Meetups
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Monthly social events with other teens living with sickle cell
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Safe space to talk about real struggles without judgment
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Fun activities: games, pizza, movie nights, and more
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Build friendships with people who actually understand
Progression to Adult Care Support
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Guidance on moving from pediatric to adult healthcare providers
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Learn how to schedule your own appointments and refill prescriptions
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Understanding insurance and how to navigate the system
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Building confidence to speak up with doctors and advocate for yourself
Self-Advocacy Training
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Workshops on how to explain sickle cell to friends, teachers, and employers
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Practice speaking up when you need accommodations or help
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Know your rights at school and in the workplace
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Build confidence in asking for what you need without shame
Peer Mentoring
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Get matched with an older warrior who has been through what you're facing
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One-on-one support from someone who truly understands
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Ask questions about relationships, college, jobs, and life with SCD
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Build connections that last beyond the program
College & Career Prep
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Help planning for college with sickle cell accommodations
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Career exploration and guidance on disclosure decisions
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Scholarship search assistance and application support
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Learn how to balance health management with school and work
Mental Health Support
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Access to therapists who understand chronic illness and teen life
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Coping strategies for anxiety, depression, and stress
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Support processing identity and what sickle cell means to you
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Confidential, judgment-free mental health resources
Social Events & Activities
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Organized outings: bowling, movies, game nights, outdoor adventures
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Virtual hangouts for when you can't leave home
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Celebrate milestones and achievements together
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Create memories that aren't defined by being sick
Educational Workshops
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Teen-friendly workshops on managing pain, dating, and life transitions
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Learn about gene therapy and treatment options for your future
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Financial literacy and planning for independence
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Topics chosen by teens, for teens
Hear from Teen Warriors
Real voices from young people who found connection and support through our programs.
The gene therapy education I received gave me the confidence to pursue treatment. Best decision I ever made.
Terrence J.
Warrior, Kansas City
As a teen with sickle cell, I finally found people who understand what I'm going through. The youth program changed my life.
Darius W.
Teen Warrior, St.Louis
Ready to Get Support?
You don't have to do this alone. Reach out today and let us walk beside you.