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Since the inception of the Sickle Cell Disease Foundation of California we have
struggled to keep the light of life burning for those suffering with this major chronic
illness. In many respects we have done well. However, the future offers exciting new
opportunities.
As we move into the 21st Century we must expand our perceptions and think more
globally. The Sickle Cell Disease Foundation of California, like all non-profits, must
make an assessment of profits and losses and design a strategic plan for maximum success.
Yes, we have done many things well. And yes, we should have and could have done many
things better.
The SCDFC is pointed toward a bright tomorrow. We have worked long and hard developing
partnerships and collaborating with other social service programs. We have been open to
constructive criticisms and we see the need for change. We have met with our families,
seen their tears and heard their cries for help. And we are poised and positioned for our
journey.
I would not be truthful if I did not share our anxiety about the unknown. Change is
difficult for all of us and it is surely no different in the work place. Our desire is
that change will bring about brighter days for our clients and their families. These are
exciting times for sickle cell disease. There are new drug therapies and research that
have hopeful promises. There are more interested politicians that have recently pledged
their support; there are more corporate partnerships developing; and most importantly,
there are new donors showing their faith and confidence in the work we have done and plan
to do.
As we gaze into the horizon we see more hope and less pain. But most importantly, we
see that the education of the public, primary care providers, and other health care
professionals, has contributed to the growing confidence that individuals with sickle cell
disease posses today. We all play a significant role in those we serve and at the end of
the day we should be able to say, “I have done my best.”
Mary E. Brown
President and Chief Executive Officer
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