World Sickle Cell Day, observed annually on June 19th, raises global awareness about sickle cell disease (SCD): a hereditary blood disorder affecting millions worldwide that causes red blood cells to deform into a rigid, sickle shape, disrupting oxygen flow and causing severe pain, organ damage, and life-threatening complications. About 1 in 13 African Americans carry the sickle cell trait, and many do not know they have it. Recent advances in gene therapy have reached a life-changing...