On September 12, 2026, the Howard University Center for Sickle Cell Disease (HU CSCD) will host their 20th annual Cure Sickle Cell Now 5K Walk/Run on Howard University’s campus. In-person and family-friendly, the event will also feature activities, games, and prizes.
Although there had been sickle cell walks prior, 2007 marked the first Stomp Out Sickle Cell Walk, from Howard University to a hotel hosting a local sickle cell conference. Over the years, the Walk location has changed location, from Howard University to Freedom Plaza to the National Mall and back to Howard. This year, the walk will start at the courtyard lawn area in front of the Louis Stokes Health Sciences Library, located at 501 W St, NW, Washington, DC 20059.
Sickle cell disease is an inherited condition that affects the red blood cell. Hemoglobin, a protein inside red blood cells, carries oxygen. In SCD, the pieces of hemoglobin can stick together and cause the red blood cells to become distorted (sickling), eventually blocking the flow of blood in the vessels. There are also fewer red blood cells in the system, which causes anemia. Individuals with SCD often experience significant pain, with many saying it’s worse than the pain associated with pregnancy labor or a broken bone.
Although new therapies have been developed for sickle cell disease, the majority of people with the condition, called Warriors, either do not have access to or meet the strict criteria for those treatments. The theme of this year’s walk, Cure Sickle Cell Now FOR ALL, is intended to focus on this issue and advocate for better medical care, as well as continued efforts to find treatments that will be effective for a larger number of Warriors.
For over 50 years, the HU CSCD has focused on a six-fold goal that includes comprehensive medical care, research, testing, education, counseling, and community outreach. In June 2025, Howard University proudly opened the Sickle Cell Wellness Center – the first clinical space of its kind in Washington, D.C. – dedicated to providing comprehensive, patient-centered care for individuals living with sickle cell disease (SCD). The Sickle Cell Wellness Center integrates same-day appointments, infusion therapy, routine follow-ups, and personalized treatment plans—all under one roof.
Another critical service provided by the Center is free sickle cell and hemoglobinopathy screening. Weekly screenings occur in the lobby of Howard University Hospital on Thursdays from 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM. With supplemental funding from the Maryland Department of Health, the Center is also hosting screening events throughout Maryland, including Charles, Montgonery, and Prince George’s Counties. If a person is identified as having a chance to have a child with sickle cell disease, free consultation by a certified genetic counselor will be offered to discuss clinical impact, reproductive implications, and guidance for family members.
Join the Cure Sickle Cell Now 5K Walk/Run! Registration is FREE, and more information is available at https://HUcureSCnow2026.eventbrite.com.
For more information and to schedule an appointment at the Sickle Cell Wellness Center, please call 202-865-6785.
If you would like to schedule sickle cell screening at an upcoming health fair or other event, please reach out to us at sicklecell@howard.edu.
For updates on upcoming screening events, please follow us @hucscd on Instagram and @Cure Sickle Cell Now Move-On on Facebook.
