On Saturday, October 16, 2004, the "B-Dads", an all volunteer organization of concerned fathers sponsored the 1st Annual "Little Legs with Big Hearts" Mini Walk-A-Thon for sickle cell disease. 

The "Little Legs" event was the brainchild of Eric Morgan Stewart, an actor and coach whose three year old son has sickle cell disease.  Eric was assisted in this endeavor by actor Royale Watkins, Director Reggie Bythewood and members of the B-Dads organization. 

The event featured over 200 children ages one to six, walking one lap around the quarter mile track at UCLA's Drake Stadium.  The walk brought out over 500 spectators and supporters, with the children raising over $25,000 for the Sickle Cell Disease Foundation of California.  The funds raised will keep valuable programs and services available at the Foundation.

The event was a success on many levels. The venue was donated with the assistance of Dr. Franklin D. Gilliam, Associate Vice Chancellor at UCLA.  Celebrities in attendance included actor Orlando Jones (Biker Boyz, Father of the Pride) who served as the emcee of the program.  Actress Sanaa Lathan (Alien vs. Predator, Love & Basketball) was the hostess of the event.   U.S. Track & Field Olympian Maurice Green led the children around the track and Los Angeles City Councilman Mark Ridley Thomas was in attendance to lend support.  The Los Angeles Sparks sent out their teen dance group "The Spark Kids" to perform, joining the Sickle Cell Disease Foundations' junior choir.  Singer Kina, formerly of Brownstone rounded out the program.  DJ "Cattdog" from radio station 100.3 The Beat was on the mike and made sure the energy level remained high. 

A successful event like the "Little Legs" walk would not have been possible without great volunteer participation and support from any number of individuals and companies.  Some of those who went above and beyond the call include Allsion Curry, The Mocha Moms, and of course the entire B-Dads, Inc.  We would also like to thank Coldstone Creamery Ice Cream, UCLA Office of Student Affairs, radio stations 100.3 The Beat and KJLH.  Special thanks goes out to Ava Duvernay and her agency for a great campaign.