Mary E. McAllister – Executive Director

It is, indeed, time to celebrate – celebrate the significance of the accomplishments of Operation Sickle Cell, Inc., and its many supporters. Time to celebrate, time to reflect on the past, time to contemplate the future. Langston Hughes, in one of his outstanding poems, said, “Hold fast to dream, for if dreams die, life is like a broken-winged bird that cannot fly. Hold fast to dreams, for if dreams go, life is like barren land, covered with snow.” So as we enter this new millennium and face all the challenges that we know we will face out there in the battle against sickle cell disease, we won’t lower our standards, we wont give up on our dreams.

I want to ask for your help. I am convinced that there is no limit to what you can accomplish when you combine with the right people. It is the quality of people in the community working together as a “whole” toward a common goal that places us in a position to provide the best possible services to our clients in Cumberland, Harnett, Hoke and Robeson Counties. I am still excited about being here because I am excited about working with you to make our dreams a reality.

Operation Sickle Cell, Inc. is aware that solution to the sickle cell problem is going to come through research. On-going studies and medical technology have provided improved pain management strategies for sickle cell patients. But until a cure is found, such program components as education, case management, counseling screening, child service coordination, home health services, and summer camps were created to meet the needs of our spiraling caseload. These programs too yield actual benefits.

Today, Operation Sickle Cell, Inc. still considers education of the public a major objective. The target population are those of childbearing age. Disseminating information about sickle cell disease and HIV/AIDS is all part of the organization’s foundation.

We are proud of our accomplishments in providing quality health care to sickle cell patients. Obviously, there is much to be done. But we are ready and our commitment is firm. I look to the future of sickle cell projects with confidence and optimism, knowing that, working together in a spirit of cooperation, we will not only benefit the client but also strengthen the organization.