Delta State University junior, Stephon Jackson, has been battling with sickle cell anemia since birth.

To help bring awareness to the disease, Jackson is starting an organization called United Sickle Cell Anemia Association. “I started this organization for the sake of people along with myself, with the genetic disease of sickle cell anemia,” said Jackson. “I feel that sickle cell anemia does not get as much attention that it should.”

Jackson feels that many people aren’t as confortable with sharing their stories and others aren’t aware or having the understanding of the trials and tribulations that they encounter while having the disease.

“My plans for USCAA are to get the word out more because it is a serious disease,” he said. “Also, to help others with the disease, plan fundraising events and to help find a cure.”

As of right now, Jackson said anyone who would like to participate or wants to make a difference can join the organization. There is also no fee to join the organization, but donations can be made. “One penny can change lives,” he said.

Jackson noted that the proceeds will go to hospitals, charities, and hopefully, a future sickle cell clinic. The organization isn’t certified, but Jackson is working on it.

“This organization is something I just started and I plan on making it the biggest [certified] organization in the world,” he said.

There is a Facebook group https://www.facebook.com/groups/187791298263059/ that others can check out to get more updates on the organization. “It is growing day by day,” he said.

To contact him for more information, email [email protected].

“Please help to support this movement to make a change for those who are suffering from the illness, #UniteToFight,” he said.

Sickle cell anemia disease is a disease of inherited red blood cell disorders. Those who have the illness have abnormal hemoglobin, protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen into the body, in their red blood cells.

Let’s raise awareness.