SICKLE CELL DATA COLLECTION

PROJECTS & DATA

 MN SCDC Data Collection


As of 2024, CDC's Sickle Cell Data Collection (SCDC) program funds 16 states with the objective to gather important health information about people living with sickle cell disease (SCD) to assess long-term trends in diagnosis, treatment, and healthcare access in the United States. SCDC helps inform policy decisions and resource allocation within states to improve and extend the lives of people with SCD.

 SCDC Warrior Photoblog


Minnesota Warrior: Marvin Banks

Living Beyond Limits

Marvin's journey with sickle cell disease (SCD) provides a powerful testament to resilience, the importance of support systems, and the enduring hope for a future where SCD is better understood and managed. His story is a beacon of strength for others living with SCD, a reminder that they are not alone and that their voices, too, can make a difference.

In 1970, Marvin Banks was born into a world that knew little about the disease that would come to define much of his life.

Marvin and his twin sister were diagnosed at just two years old. Marvin’s mother, unfamiliar with anyone living with SCD, faced the overwhelming reality of caring for twin children with a condition that was both mysterious and deadly. Marvin’s earliest memory of SCD’s impact on his body dates back to when he was five years old. By then, he was more aware of his condition, a realization that was compounded by the loss of his twin sister to SCD in 1977 when they were just seven years old. Her death marked a pivotal moment in Marvin’s life, a stark reminder of the disease’s deadly potential.

Now, at 54 years old, Marvin reflects on his journey, sharing his story and advocating for better understanding and treatment of SCD.

Read More…

* The Sickle Cell Warrior Photoblog is part of the MN Sickle Cell Data Collection Program (MN-SCDC) and is brought to you in partnership with Center for Disease Control (CDC) Sickle Cell Data Collection Project (SCDC), MN Department of Health (MDH) and Sickle Cell Foundation of MN (SickleCellMN).

 Minnesota SCDC Education


 More Minnesota Warrior Stories


Meet MN Warrior: Treyvon

The inspiration behind SickleCellMN

Despite the challenges of living with sickle cell disease, Trey says he stays healthy by remembering things he learned as a kid and trying to remember to take his medications. Trey also says:

“I stay encouraged by working and being around family. I also depend on God a lot”

Meet MN Warrior: Mikayla

A Life with SCD

Sickle Cell Warrior, teen activist, volleyball Queen — Mikayla — is a phenom-in-the-making. The 13-year-old scholar and stock investor has faced head on the challenges of living with sickle cell disease, surgery and multiple hospitalizations. This girl with ambition still finds time to play competitive volleyball, dance, and travel the world, while living a life of impact and fun! Mikayla’s on a mission to raise awareness and funding for Sickle Cell research and to find a cure.

 Other Warrior Stories


 Share Your Story With Us!


Are you a Minnesota warrior or caregiver who would like to share your Sickle Cell Story?

Share Your Story!

There are many opportunities to share your sickle cell story using video, photos, or in-person speaking. 

Contact us to learn more!