Hosted by Expecting Health in collaboration with Be The Match, this webinar delved into the current practices and considerations surrounding bone marrow transplant as a potential curative treatment for Sickle Cell disease. The session aimed to shed light on the intricacies of the transplant process and to amplify awareness within the newborn screening community.
Speakers:
- Dr. Timothy Olson, M.D., Ph.D.
- Medical Director, Pediatric Blood and Marrow Transplant Program
- Co-Director, Sickle Cell and Red Cell Disorders Curative Therapy Center (CuRED)
- Affiliated with The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia
- Kisha Hampton, MPH
- Sickle Cell Team Lead at Indiana Hemophilia and Thrombosis Center
- Andrea Matthews
- Parent & Founder of The Children’s Sickle Cell Foundation
Moderators:
- Marianna Raia, MS, CGC
- Representing Expecting Health
- Karla Dawson, MPH
- Representing Be the Match
The webinar began with an introduction to the significance of bone marrow transplant in the treatment of Sickle Cell disease. Dr. Timothy Olson provided insights into the medical advancements and the potential of stem cell transplantation as a curative approach. He emphasized the importance of early detection and the role of newborn screening in determining suitable candidates for the procedure.
Kisha Hampton, with her expertise in hemophilia and thrombosis, discussed the challenges faced by patients and the medical community in the journey towards finding a cure for Sickle Cell disease. She highlighted the need for comprehensive care and the importance of community support.
Andrea Matthews shared a personal perspective, narrating her experiences as a parent of a child with Sickle Cell disease. She emphasized the emotional and physical toll it takes on families and the significance of having a strong support system. Her foundation, The Children’s Sickle Cell Foundation, aims to provide that support to affected families.
The session was moderated by Marianna Raia and Karla Dawson, who facilitated the discussion, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the topic and addressing queries from the audience.
In conclusion, the webinar underscored the potential of stem cell transplantation as a curative treatment for Sickle Cell disease, the importance of early detection, and the need for community awareness and support.
Watch full webinar replay below: