The State of Sickle Cell Care in Massachusetts

Massachusetts Sickle Cell Association Symposium

Randolph, MA — April 25, 2026  

The Children's Law Center of Massachusetts was honored to participate in the State of Sickle Cell Care in Massachusetts Symposium, a timely gathering aimed at highlighting the latest advancements in sickle cell disease (SCD) treatment, persistent disparities in care, and legislative efforts to improve health outcomes for individuals living with the disease. The symposium was hosted by the Massachusetts Sickle Cell Association (MSCA) in partnership with the Town of Randolph, Spring of Water Christian Assembly, and the Norfolk-Plymouth County Area Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. The event was held as part of MSCA's statewide public education campaign to raise awareness about sickle cell disease across Massachusetts.  

Welcome remarks were delivered by Randolph Town Manager Brian Howard and Town Councilor Katrina Huff-Larmond. CLCM Executive Director Jenny Chou participated as a panelist alongside distinguished guests from the medical community, academia, and MSCA's network of community partners.  

Speakers addressed a broad range of issues central to the sickle cell community, including legislative advocacy, blood donor initiatives, the genetics of sickle cell anemia, current treatments and ongoing clinical trials, the intersection of racism and sickle cell disease, and tools for patient education and advocacy. The program concluded with presentations on the mental health costs of health inequity and fertility preservation for individuals with sickle cell disease. The program closed with a facilitated question and answer session. Patients were then invited to share their lived experiences with the panel and attendees, grounding the day's conversations in direct community voice.  

CLCM is proud to stand alongside the MSCA and its partners in advancing equitable health and legal outcomes for all Massachusetts residents.