Bereavement Support

Support for families navigating loss within the sickle cell community.

Have You Lost a Loved One to Sickle Cell Disease? We Can Help!

Finding Clarity, Providing Care

For families living with sickle cell disease (SCD), the unexpected loss of a loved one brings immense pain — and often many unanswered questions. The Enhancing Understanding of Mortality in Sickle Cell Disease Initiative, led by the Foundation for Sickle Cell Disease Research (FSCDR), offers compassionate support and practical resources so no family is left without answers.

As part of this initiative, FSCDR covers the full cost of a specialized forensic autopsy to determine the precise cause of death. These findings help provide clarity and closure for families while advancing the medical community’s understanding of SCD-related mortality.

Beyond the autopsy process, FSCDR supports families with funeral assistance, bereavement counseling, and guidance in completing Advanced Directives and Pre-Need Planning, reducing stress during an already difficult time.

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Enhancing Understanding of Mortality in Sickle Cell Disease — At a Glance

Specialized SCD autopsy protocol covering vertebral/spinal structures, ocular tissues, and all organ systems impacted by SCD — enabling meaningful data capture for the FSCDR Mortality Registry.

Advanced Directives & Pre-Need Planning to reduce emotional and financial stress.

Free specialized forensic autopsy for families to determine the precise cause of death.

Financial assistance for funeral services and bereavement counseling.

Your participation helps advance research and improve care for future Sickle Cell Warriors.