St John Baptist Church in Columbia, MD is partnering with The Baltimore Ravens and the Bobbi Engram Sickle Cell Foundation to host the Run, Walk-N-Roll 5K to cure Sickle Cell Anemia. The event, which is scheduled for Saturday, November 2nd from 9 a.m. to 1p.m., at St John Baptist Church is designed to create awareness about the disease as well as to raise needed funding for a cure.
Sickle Cell Anemia, or Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) is a disease in which the body produces abnormally shaped red blood cells. The cells are shaped like a crescent or sickle. The lifespan of abnormal cells are shorter than the more normal round red blood cells. This leads to anemia. The sickle cells also cause pain and organ damage as their sickle shape cause them to get stuck in blood vessels and block blood flow.
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), SCD affects approximately 100,000 Americans.
SCD occurs among about 1 out of every 365 Black or African-American births.
SCD occurs among about 1 out of every 16,300 Hispanic-American births.
About 1 in 13 Black or African-American babies are born with sickle cell trait (SCT).
The Run, Walk & Roll 5K participants may have an opportunity to meet the Baltimore Ravens quarterback, Lamar Jackson, Po the mascot, the Ravens cheerleaders, and band. This event is open for everyone: competitive runners, walkers, strollers, joggers, children, and families. There will also be a modified course for anyone who is differently abled, or for those with additional medical restrictions.
Howard County Executive Calvin Ball, who will attend the event, has ensured that the County Health Department will be on hand to serve area residents. Both the Howard County Health Department and Children’s Medical Center will conduct medical screenings and free flu shots. There will be music, games, and more.
“Sickle Cell affects millions within our community,” said St John senior pastor, the Rev. Dr. Robert A.F. Turner. “It is our absolute responsibility to raise awareness, funding, as well as to fervently search for a cure.”
Area residents are encouraged to register today on Eventbrite or visit: stjohnbaptistchurch.org for additional information. St John organizers are hoping that a great number of people will participate in this effort to discover a cure. St John Baptist Church is located at 9055 Tamar Drive Columbia, MD 21045.
