2 minute read
Research update
Sickle cell disease news
This space highlights academic and research initiatives at our Prisma Health Children’s Hospital sites that are improving the lives of children and adolescents across South Carolina. In this issue, the spotlight shines on Prisma Health’s Comprehensive Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) Program in the Upstate in connection with Prisma Health’s Pediatric SCD Program in the Midlands.
Program Director Alan Anderson, MD, recently received exciting news about the final execution of the contract to join the American Society of Hematology SCD clinical trials network. The network, launched with a mission of improving outcomes for those with this rare disease, is an unprecedented national effort to streamline operations and facilitate data sharing to expedite development of new treatment options.
The network and its partners share a commitment to: • Forge new relationships with the SCD community to increase their understanding of clinical trials and trust in
SCD researchers. • Eliminate inefficiencies through use of a centralized data repository (the ASH RC Data Hub) and a single institutional review board approval. • Focus on research opportunities that hold the most promise for individuals with SCD.
Not only does this contract bring $100,000 a year to Prisma Health for research, but it also connects our programs to other leading programs in SCD research and treatment across the country.
Congratulations, Dr. Anderson, and to our hematology colleagues in the Upstate and Midlands for their acceptance into this important program!
September is National Sickle Cell Awareness Month.
Camps for those with sickle cell disease
CAMP KEMO Programs Teen Retreat (Midlands) Wednesday–Friday, Aug. 4–6 Camp Cole near Eastover, S.C.
A teen retreat for patients with sickle cell disease or cancer (off therapy only) ages 12–19. Sponsored by CAMP KEMO Programs, which offers psychosocial services to patients treated at Prisma Health Children’s Hospital Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders. Contact Cassandra.Shea@PrismaHealth.org.
Camp Crescent (Upstate) Sunday, Sept. 19 Pleasant Ridge Camp & Retreat Center near Marietta, S.C.
A one-day, medically supervised camp for children and adults with sickle cell disease and their families. Transportation available for those who need it. Sponsored by Prisma Health Children’s Hospital. Registration opens in August. Contact Bradshaw.info@PrismaHealth.org or Carrianne.Stoker-Postier@PrismaHealth.org.
In honor of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month in September, we invite you to support Aniket Saha, MD, and other team members running in the annual ‘Ville to ‘Ville Relay Race on Sunday, Sept. 26. Funds raised will support Pediatric Hematology/Oncology and the Comprehensive Sickle Cell Disease Program at Prisma Health Children’s Hospital in the Upstate. These services focus on treatment, disease modification and preventive care for children and families in the community.
Although the race is now closed to participants, your financial support for this effort will provide vital services to our patients and their families. To contribute: VISIT: https://bit.ly/TeamMeade TEXT: TeamMeade to 41444
