SAGINAW, MI — To kick off National Sickle Cell Awareness Month, the Saginaw County Sickle Cell Support Group is organizing a walk-a-thon fundraiser for county residents who are interested in learning more about the disease.
The 25th annual event will take place from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 7. There is no cost to walk. Donations are encouraged.
The 5K begins at the Saginaw Farmer’s Market, continues through Hoyt Park on South Washington in Celebration Square returns to the Farmer’s Market. Water and juice will be provided.
President Joyce Redfearn, 51, of Saginaw said the time is ideal to fit the schedule for anyone who wants to walk throughout the day.
“The time-frame gives people different options to pick when to walk,” Redfearn said.
Redfearn, whose daughter has sickle cell, said she has been involved in the group for 20 years and president for five.
“Most of the group is made up of people with sickle cell disease and their families,” she said. “But we invite anyone who would like to come and support our group. All proceeds go to the sickle cell support group to help sickle cell patients throughout the course of the year.”
Tamar Chipp, public relations for Michigan Blood, said patients with sickle cell disease receive regular blood transfusions, and her staff will be present handing out information about blood types and donations.
Readfear, who is a pastor at Mask Memorial C.M.E. Church in Lansing, said she is trying to create as much awareness about sickle cell as she can.
“We normally have 50 to 100 people walking,” she said. “We are trying to increase that number yearly.”
For information about the walk, call Redfearn at 989-906-3342.
