Sickle Cell Disease is an inherited blood disorder that affects approximately 100,000 Americans, more prevalently people of African and Latinx/Hispanic descent. Children who live with Sickle Cell Disease experience acute pain crises, dangerous infections, and other serious problems that can damage every organ in their bodies. We are proud to have one of the largest pediatric sickle cell programs in the Chicago area.

Sickle Cell Disease patients have special needs that require treatment and support from a range of specialists, which is why management typically involves a multidisciplinary approach, including regular medical check-ups, pain management, blood transfusions, medication, and sometimes bone marrow transplantation. That’s why La Rabida’s collaborative approach works so well. As a Patient-Centered Medical Home, we offer complete comprehensive care for children.

In addition to primary care and physician services, each child has a full team of therapists including physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech therapists, and infant developmental specialists to help them reach their fullest potential. We also provide patients with access to care coordination, support, and social services.

While there is not a universal cure right now, patients with Sickle Cell Disease can live happy, full lives with the proper management. Living with a complex medical condition like Sickle Cell Disease can be difficult, and our care teams work to ensure our patients and families don’t let the disease overtake their lives so they can live with Sickle Cell Disease and still reach their fullest potential.

Click here to learn more about our Sickle Cell program, or read about Malik and Syncere’s journey with Sickle Cell Disease at La Rabida.

We’re a proud sponsor of the Sickle Cell Disease Association of Illinois' 49th Annual 5K/1K this Saturday, September 23. Come out and walk, jog or bike for a cure with us! Be sure to look for us when you’re there! Sign up for the race here.