

Sickle Cell Association of Savannah, Inc.
Media Contact: Olivia Carter
Head of Communications and PR
livvibri@gmail.com FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
1 February 2024
The Sickle Cell Association of Savannah Launches the John Finney-Parnell Jones Scholarship
Savannah, Georgia, February 1, 2024 The Sickle Cell Association of Savannah announces the launch of its John Finney-Parnell Jones Scholarship for 2024. The scholarship program is aimed at students passionate about continuing their higher education who are diagnosed with Sickle Cell Anemia.
The scholarship is open to current undergraduates and high school seniors SCAS will require medical certification from a treating physician, or some form of written documentation is required to show that students meet the qualifications of this scholarship.
The applicant must be a current resident of the Savannah-Chatham County communities. To apply, students can download and fill out the application found on the associates webpage Applications are due April 12, 2024.
About The Sickle Cell Association of Savannah

Screening efforts began in 1973 at the Chatham County Health Department, prompted by state laws on premarital testing A dedicated group of individuals, including nurse Mrs Parnell Jones and chaired by Mr. John Finney, formed the Sickle Cell Anemia Steering Committee to provide community education and support services. Over the years, through collaborations with organizations like the Economic Opportunity Authority and the Sickle Cell Foundation of Georgia, Inc , as well as the Curtis V Cooper Primary Health Care Center, the Sickle Cell Association of Savannah has worked tirelessly to increase awareness, understanding, and supportive services for individuals with sickle cell trait and disease in Chatham and surrounding counties
To learn more about SCAS or access its resources, go to www.savannahsicklecell.com.
# # #

Sickle Cell Association of Savannah, Inc.
BACKGROUNDER
Overview:
Media Contact: Olivia Carter
Head of Communications and PR
livvibri@gmail.com
The Sickle Cell Association of Savannah is a non-profit organization dedicated to raising awareness, providing support, and advocating for individuals and families affected by sickle cell disease in the Savannah community. Established in 1987, our organization has been a consistent ally in the battle against this genetic blood disorder, working towards improving the quality of life for those impacted. Screening efforts began in 1973 at the Chatham County Health Department, prompted by state laws on premarital testing. A dedicated group of individuals, including nurse Mrs. Parnell Jones and chaired by Mr. John Finney, formed the Sickle Cell Anemia Steering Committee to provide community education and support services
Sickle Cell Disease Overview:
Sickle cell disease is an inherited blood disorder that affects red blood cells People with sickle cell disease have red blood cells that contain mostly hemoglobin S, an abnormal type of hemoglobin. Sometimes these red blood cells become sickle-shaped (crescent shaped) and have difficulty passing through small blood vessels. When sickle-shaped cells block small blood vessels, less blood can reach that part of the body. Tissue that does not receive a normal blood flow eventually becomes damaged. This is what causes the complications of sickle cell disease. There is currently no universal cure for the disease.
Mission:

Our mission is to take necessary actions to help patients and their families live as healthy and comfortable a life as humanly possible

Sickle Cell Association of Savannah, Inc.
How You Can Support:
Media Contact: Olivia Carter Head of Communications and PR
livvibri@gmail.com
SCAS relies on the donations of individuals, businesses, and organizations to continue its mission Whether through financial contributions, volunteering, or participating in our events, your support plays a huge role in helping us make an impact in the community of Savannah. The goal of the organization is raise vital funding for research that can advance new treatment options and ultimately find a universal cure
Upcoming Initiatives:
In the next year, the Sickle Cell Association of Savannah looks to expand its reach and impact through new initiatives:
Launch an educational campaign targeting local schools, workplaces, and healthcare providers

Strengthen partnerships with local healthcare institutions to improve patient care and access to treatment.
Organize retreats and fundraising events to support ongoing programs and enhance the services provided.