Cayenne Wellness Center and Children's Foundation: Supporting Sickle Cell Patients in California

Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) is a genetic blood disorder affecting millions of people globally. It causes red blood cells to become hard and sticky, forming a sickle shape that can block blood flow and cause pain, stroke, organ damage, and other complications. Currently, no universal cure for SCD exists; however, there are multiple treatments and support services available to help patients manage their symptoms and improve their lives.

One organization dedicated to providing support for people living with sickle cell disease is the Cayenne Wellness Center and Children’s Foundation (CayenneWellness.org). Under the executive leadership of Carolyn Rowley, PhD, Cayenne Wellness Center has developed a range of programs and services to assist patients and their families.

About Cayenne Wellness Center and Children’s Foundation

Cayenne Wellness Center and Children’s Foundation (Cayenne Wellness Center) is a non-profit, 501(c)(3) organization founded in 2000. Its mission is to increase the quality of life for individuals diagnosed with SCD in California by ensuring expert, unbiased, accessible, and comprehensive care. At its core, Cayenne Wellness Center offers a range of programs and services, including transportation for medical care, mental health counseling, nutritional support, educational resources, blood drives, and more.

Support for Sickle Cell Patients

One key area of focus is to provide support for sickle cell patients. Cayenne Wellness Center offers a range of services to assist patients and their families, including:

Transportation To Medical Care

Cayenne Wellness Center provides rides for sickle cell patients via UberHealth who cannot get to their regular check-ups, pain management, and other healthcare appointments.

Mental Health Counseling

SCD can cause emotional and psychological stress for patients and their families. Cayenne Wellness Center offers mental health counseling services to help patients cope with the challenges of the disease. Counseling services are available for patients of all ages, free of charge for sickle cell patients who are California residents.

Nutritional Support

Proper nutrition is important for managing SCD. Cayenne Wellness Center offers nutrition services to help patients maintain a healthy diet and manage their symptoms. Dr. Rowley, also co-authored “Creating Your Ultimate Self: The Body. Dr. Rowley’s 3-4-4 Nutritional Method and Thoughtful Exercise” to provide the community with knowledge about nutrition within the body.

Educational Resources

Cayenne Wellness Center provides a host of educational resources for patients and their families. Educational materials are available in multiple languages. They offer workshops, training sessions for healthcare professionals and community organizations, and an annual summit that shares cutting-edge information and research with the public. The Community Health Worker for the Northern California Region is Hope Medina, who will provide assistance to Sickle Cell residents by connecting them with specific resources and services tailored to SCD. Their newest initiative is the Sickle Cell Trait Awareness Campaign (STAC), a five-year effort that targets students, athletes, parents, and educators in California and stresses the importance of getting tested for sickle cell trait and knowing the risks associated with the gene.

Compassionate Leadership Continues

Sickle cell disease can be a challenging and debilitating condition, but with support and resources, patients can manage their symptoms and lead healthy, fulfilling lives. Cayenne Wellness Center is committed to providing comprehensive resources for sickle cell patients and their families. Through its range of programs and services, the Center makes a positive impact on the lives of those affected by this disease.