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Donna T Darrien Memorial Foundation for Sickle Cell
About Us
Our Mission
To enhance the care and quality of life of those individuals with sickle cell anemia through collaboration, education, information, and support.
The Donna T. Darrien Memorial Foundation for Sickle Cell, Inc. was organized in 1999, in memory of Donna, a twenty-three year old who died as a consequence of Sickle Cell Disease on July 17, 1997. During Donna's last hospitalization and eventual death, it became apparent to her mother that too few knew about the disease and its affect on families. While much information has been provided about sickle cell disease, those living with the it and their families who deal with it on a daily basis know that a lack of education still exists.
In response several family members and friends organized to educate the general public about this devastating disease and promote finding a universal cure. Upon organizing, its board was established and adopted as its mission "to enhance the care and quality of life of those individuals with sickle cell through collaboration, education, information, and support." The 501(c)3 organization is incorporated in the State of New Jersey.
The first mission is to educate the general public about Sickle Cell Disease. Too often the disease does not dominate the public attention. For a mother to lose a child is painful; to hear whispers and false rumors adds to the hurt and pain. Donna was not a drug addict and she had nothing that was contagious.Donna suffered from Sickle Cell C disease. This determined young lady was an aspiring engineering student and a leader in her community. She was very much a fighter, challenger and a giver with hopes and dreams just as so many living with sickle cell, fighting and hoping for understanding and a cure. Education about Sickle Cell Disease in general is important in fostering understanding.
Contact
The DTD Foundation
P.O. Box 3331
Newark, New Jersey 07013
Phone: 973-282-1997
dtdsicklecell.org
Created by members of the DTD Foundation