Walking Together for 18 Years…and Counting!
For the past 18 years, Peggy has been a familiar face at the Sickle Cell Walk, giving her time, compassion, and unwavering support to the sickle cell community. What started as a personal connection through her grandchildren has grown into a passion that continues to touch the lives of countless families. "My grandchildren brought me to the Sickle Cell Task Force," Peggy shared. Through her work with the newborn screening advisory committee, she was encouraged to join the Task Force when there was a need for another board member. She said yes and nearly two decades later, she's still serving with the same heart and dedication. Over the years, Peggy has done far more than help organize the annual walk. Whether she's helping someone complete paperwork, connecting families with resources, or simply being there to listen, she's always looking for ways to support the community. "It's become a passion of mine to do as much as I can to support this community," she said. "At the end of the day, it's become an extended family."
That sense of family is exactly what the Sickle Cell Walk is all about.
Peggy has watched the walk grow from a small gathering into a community event that brings together families, friends, volunteers, healthcare partners, and local organizations. Every year, people return and often bring someone new with them. "It's grown because people come, they experience it, and they bring a friend back the next year," she said. The walk is more than just a chance to get outside and enjoy a morning together. It's a place where families living with sickle cell disease can connect with one another, celebrate their strength, and discover valuable community resources. From educational booths and healthcare information to housing, employment, and family services, the event offers something for everyone. For Peggy, one of the most meaningful parts of the walk is seeing people leave with a better understanding of sickle cell disease. "I've had people tell me, 'I never knew anything about sickle cell. This helped me understand it.'"
She explained that sickle cell disease is often an invisible illness. Someone may look perfectly healthy while living with chronic pain, fatigue, or other serious complications. The walk helps shine a light on those experiences, creating greater awareness, understanding, and compassion throughout the community. When asked what she'd say to someone who's never attended the Sickle Cell Walk, Peggy didn't hesitate. Please come," she said with a smile. "I promise you a day filled with education, music, food, laughter, exercise, and so much love and joy." After 18 years, Peggy continues to remind us what makes this community so special. Her kindness, commitment, and willingness to serve have helped make the Sickle Cell Walk a place where people feel seen, supported, and connected.
We're incredibly grateful for Peggy and for the many volunteers like her who continue to make our community stronger, one walk at a time.
