Driving Change: MiCaringHeart & the Fight for Sickle Cell Care
Cheat Codes: A Sickle Cell Podcast
On this episode, Dr. Z and Dr. C welcome Shayan Siddiqui, founder of MiCaringHeart, to discuss his impactful work supporting sickle cell patients in Detroit. Shayan shares how his family's experiences inspired initiatives like Cabs for Kids, providing transportation to medical appointments, and Outsmart, offering free tutoring for children with chronic illnesses. The conversation highlights the challenges of healthcare access and the power of community-driven solutions. For more information about MiCaringHeart, visit SHOW DESCRIPTION Cheat Codes is intended for patients,...
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‘So What Did I Miss?’: A Recap of the 2023/2024 NASCC Meeting
Cheat Codes: A Sickle Cell Podcast
In this special episode of Cheat Codes, Dr. Z and Dr. C hand the co-hosting mic to Dr. Julie Kanter for a lively walk through the history of the National Alliance of Sickle Cell Centers (NASCC) annual meetings. Alongside Dr. Sophie Lanzkron, Dr. Francis Coyne, and Dr. Alexis Leonard, they revisit key moments from 2022’s belly-dancing dinner to 2025’s record-breaking Vermont gathering. The conversation covers how NASCC consensus topics like pain management, iron overload, gene therapy readiness, and defining a “sickle cell specialist” have evolved year-to-year. Packed with...
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Rising Stars in Sickle Cell: Dr. Alyssa Schlenz
Cheat Codes: A Sickle Cell Podcast
In this Rising Star episode from the NASCC meeting in Stowe, Vermont, Dr. Z and Dr. C spotlight Dr. Alyssa Schlenz, a psychologist transforming sickle cell care through early developmental screening and neuropsychological support. Dr. Schlenz shares her journey into the field, the critical role of prevention and early intervention, and the unique challenges faced by patients with neurodevelopmental disorders. She explains how routine, relationship-based screenings can identify issues early, reduce stigma, and improve long-term outcomes. This inspiring conversation highlights the power of...
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Good Sickle Cell Care
Cheat Codes: A Sickle Cell Podcast
In this live episode from the NASCC meeting in Stowe, Vermont, Dr. Z and Dr. C are joined by a powerhouse panel: Dr. Payal Desai, Dr. Seethal Jacob, Dr. Pat McGann, and Dr. Andy Ellner to unpack what truly defines great sickle cell care. The group explores the importance of comprehensive, continuous, and patient-centered models, from inpatient to outpatient settings, pediatrics to adulthood. They discuss integrating technology, clinical trials, and multidisciplinary teams to improve quality of life and prevent long-term complications. It’s an insightful look at how collaboration, innovation,...
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History & Founding of NASCC
Cheat Codes: A Sickle Cell Podcast
In this episode of Cheat Codes, Dr. Z and Dr. C sit down with Dr. Julie Kanter, Dr. Sophie Lanzkron, and Dr. Marsha Treadwell to spotlight the National Alliance of Sickle Cell Centers (NASCC). They explore how NASCC came to life, its mission to unite multidisciplinary teams, and its role in setting consensus guidelines for sickle cell care. From building a national registry to fostering collaboration between clinics, community organizations, and patients, the conversation captures a pivotal movement toward consistent, high-quality care nationwide. Listeners will hear how NASCC is shaping the...
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Building Community in Patient Advocacy - One Warrior at a Time
Cheat Codes: A Sickle Cell Podcast
In this episode of Cheat Codes, Dr. Z and Dr. C are joined by renowned advocates TaLana Hughes and Cassandra Trimnell to explore what “the sickle cell community” truly means. They discuss how patients, caregivers, providers, and allies form interconnected, and often overlapping, communities that bring hope, support, and change. From building trust to celebrating wins, the conversation highlights the power of connection, the importance of access to information, and how to find your “tribe” in the sickle cell space. Whether local or global, online or in person, community remains the...
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Sickle Cell Advocacy: Stories, Struggles, and Self-Care
Cheat Codes: A Sickle Cell Podcast
On this episode of Cheat Codes, guest host Janie Davis, Director of Patient Advocacy at Agios Pharmaceuticals, is joined by sickle cell advocates Teonna Woolford, Cassandra Trimnell, and Rae Blaylark discuss the challenges and rewards of sickle cell advocacy. They delve into personal journeys, the nuances of advocacy, and the importance of self-care. The conversation highlights the power of community, the significance of setting boundaries, and the need for therapeutic support. The advocates also reflect on the impact of their work and offer advice for the next generation of sickle cell...
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Legends of Sickle Cell Disease: Dr. Isaac Odame’s Journey
Cheat Codes: A Sickle Cell Podcast
On this episode, Dr. Z and Dr. C. Callahan interview Dr. Isaac Odame, a leading figure in the field of sickle cell disease. Dr. Odame shares his life story, beginning in Ghana, his medical training in the UK, and his global contributions to sickle cell research, including involvement with the Global Sickle Cell Disease Network. The discussion covers his work in various countries, the challenges, and successes in treating sickle cell disease, and his family's influence on his career. SHOW DESCRIPTION Cheat Codes is intended for patients, caregivers, providers, and the greater...
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Championing Sickle Cell Care: A Talk with Dr. Wally Smith
Cheat Codes: A Sickle Cell Podcast
Drs. Z and C welcome Dr. Wally Smith, a leading figure in sickle cell research from Virginia Commonwealth University, to discuss crucial issues affecting adults with sickle cell disease. They explore the neglect of adult patients, the need for dedicated centers, and the value of community health workers. Dr. Smith emphasizes the importance of holistic healthcare solutions, state-level policy initiatives, and community support to improve quality of life and outcomes for sickle cell patients. SHOW DESCRIPTION Cheat Codes is intended for patients, caregivers, providers, and the...
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Timmerman Hike: A Journey of Hope and Advocacy for Sickle Cell
Cheat Codes: A Sickle Cell Podcast
On this inspiring episode of Cheat Codes, Dr. Z and Dr. C talk with an extraordinary group of individuals who embarked on a monumental climb up Mount Kilimanjaro to raise awareness and funds for sickle cell disease. Led by Dr. Alan Anderson and featuring sickle cell warrior Jimi Olaghere the group of Patrick Hines, MD, PhD, Eva Gallagher, PhD, and Audra Boscoe, PhD shares personal stories of perseverance, determination, and the powerful symbolism of their climb. They discuss the challenges they faced, both mental and physical, and the life-changing impact of their journey. With over $2 million...
info_outlineOn this episode of Cheat Codes, Dr. Z and Dr. C are joined by Tabatha McGee, Executive Director of the Sickle Cell Foundation of Georgia. Tabatha shares her remarkable journey from systems engineer to leading the foundation, driven by a personal mission to enhance the lives of sickle cell warriors. The discussion delves into innovative programs like the Sickle Cell Sanctuary, holistic care initiatives, and the importance of community engagement and advocacy. An inspiring talk on leadership, resilience, and the transformative power of compassion in the fight against sickle cell disease.
To visit the Sickle Cell Foundation of Georgia, click here.
SHOW DESCRIPTION
Cheat Codes is intended for patients, caregivers, providers, and the greater community of people who are impacted by Sickle Cell Disease. Each episode, Cheat Codes strives to provide listeners with critical education, the latest scientific updates, and voices from the Sickle Cell community.
TRANSPARENCY STATEMENT
Cheat Codes: A Sickle Cell Podcast is made possible by Agios Pharmaceuticals Inc. Visit Agios.com to learn more. The following Agios-supported programs are intended for informational and educational purposes only and are not intended as medical advice. Please speak with your healthcare professional before making any treatment decisions. Hosts and guest featured in this episode have been compensated for their time.