A & B SICKLE CELL ASSOCIATION

The Antigua and Barbuda Sickle Cell Association (ABSCA) officially opened its office at the Holberton Hospital Site on Tuesday, June 19.

Celebrating World Sickle Cell Day and Sickle Cell Awareness week,  approximately 100 people attended the ribbon cutting ceremony and short program.  In the absence of  the Minister of Health, Mrs. Elenora Warner, PNO, did the honors of cutting the ribbon.  Attendees included a large contention of students from one school in Antigua (name to be provided).  More of the week's activities are listed below.

On Wednesday, members visited sick and shut-in sickle cell patients and others who are in need of encouragement, inspiration, and hope.  The highlight of Thursday's activities was a medical education program hosted by the Medical Education Department of Mount St. John's Medical Center.  Speakers included  Dr. Jillia Bird, optometrist, two members of the organization (Pastor Pamphiel and Ms. Carla Wetherhead) and two professors from the American University of Antigua (Dr. Naira Chabonyan and Dr. Regina Clark).

The week ended with two outstanding public gatherings – the Cocktail Fundraiser at Sugar Ridge on Friday night and the annual health walk in downtown St. John’s.  Both events were well attended and most successful in getting information out about the disease.  However, donations can still be made at any time.

ABSCA is an organization of approximately 40 individuals who meet regularly to support individuals with sickle cell disease.  The organization's mission is to administer high quality care, support and education, aiming for positive outcomes in a safe, client-friendly environment by a caring, knowledgeable team.

For more information, contact the organization's president, Mrs. Bernice Pigott at Ph: 463-9769/728-7928 or email Ms. Pigott or Ms. Diane Johnson, secretary (e-mail: lspigott@gmail.com or trinchic21@gmail.com)