Project Self Care
Promotes self-empowerment in the care and management of patient’s medical treatment; personal/ social growth; quality of life issues; and understanding of sickle cell disease through education. The support group strives to correct the myths, half-truths and prejudices in the community by facilitating and participating in seminars; health fairs and advocacy forms to raise public awareness about sickle cell disease and sickle cell trait. Project Self-Care is an affiliation of the Sickle Cell Disease Association of America, Philadelphia/Delaware Valley Chapter (SCDAA/PDVC), and lends support to the agency in its effort to provide needed services to the entire sickle cell community.
Soul+Mates
SOUL+Mates aspires to be the recognized support group that focuses on couples impacted by sickle cell disease in the Philadelphia/Delaware Valley area.
SOUL+Mates (Sickle Cell Overcomers United for Life + their Mates) was established to serve as a networking group that connects, mentors and inspires those that are married, engaged or dating persons affected by sickle cell disease.
SOUL+Mates came about in response to a need voiced at an annual seminar during a relationship workshop where couples openly shared their feelings and concerns. At the end of the workshop the couples felt inspired to continue the discussion on their own. Thus, SOUL+Mates was established to provide an opportunity for couples to share their thoughts and feelings openly with others facing similar issues in a supportive and non-judgmental environment. The group explores strategies and plans programs and activities to help strengthen their relationships. They have learned that a typical relationship is a work in progress, so one challenged by sickle cell disease requires much more diligence, patience and nurturing in order to be successful. SOUL + Mates provide a free flowing atmosphere to encourage healthy discussion that serves to empower and educate couples coping with a chronic illness.
Young Adult Transition Team- (Y.A.T.T.)
The Young Adult Transition Team (Y.A.T.T.) was established as a system of support for adolescents and young adults with sickle cell disease from 18-25 years old. Support focuses on those who have transitioned or are preparing to transition from adolescence to adulthood. The program serves as a vehicle to counsel adolescents and young adults in achieving educational/vocational goals, managing personal and health care issues, and providing assistance with the life-altering transition from a pediatric to an adult hospital. Y.A.T.T educates, informs and empowers adolescents and young adults to a successful transition into adulthood through workshops, field trips, interactive seminars, group and individual psychosocial sessions.
