2026 Annual Symposium Details
The 20th Annual Sickle Cell Disease Research and Educational Symposium & The 49th National Sickle Cell Disease Scientific Meeting
Friday to Sunday, June 5-7, 2026 | Hybrid Event – Broward County Convention Center, Fort Lauderdale, FL
Where Research, Care, and Community Converge
FSCDR’s Annual Sickle Cell Disease Research and Educational Symposium & National Sickle Cell Disease Scientific Meeting brings together researchers, physicians, clinicians, healthcare providers, nurses, Sickle Cell Warriors, and the wider community to advance sickle cell disease sickle cell disease research, treatment and awareness.
Over the past two decades, this gathering has evolved from a regional meeting into a global movement, catalyzing collaborations that have led to clinical trial breakthroughs and improved quality of life for thousands of Sickle Cell Warriors. The 2026 Symposium promises to honor this legacy while propelling us into the next era of innovation.
Celebrating 20th Anniversary: The Golden Age
The 2026 Symposium marks a historic milestone: the 20th anniversary of the Symposium, celebrated under the inspiring theme “The Golden Age.” This theme reflects the unprecedented progress in sickle cell research and treatment we’re witnessing today, from gene therapies and improved standards of care to growing public awareness.
The 2026 event is a hybrid program, offering both in-person engagement in Fort Lauderdale, FL and virtual access worldwide.
Foundation Keynote Speaker
Viola Davis, Award-Winning Actress, Producer and New York Times Bestselling Author
Sunday, June 7, 2026 | 12:00 PM EST
The Foundation for Sickle Cell Disease Research is honored and thrilled to announce Viola Davis as the Foundation Keynote Speaker for the 2026 Annual Symposium.
A trailblazer in every sense, Viola Davis has the rare distinction of winning an Oscar, an Emmy, two Tony Awards, and a Grammy – an EGOT icon of our time. Her story of resilience and triumph echoes the strength and spirit of every Sickle Cell Warrior.
Be part of this historic moment.
Join us in Fort Lauderdale or via global livestream as Viola Davis inspires a new chapter of hope and progress, marking the 20th Anniversary of this landmark event – The Golden Age.
2026 Scientific Chair
Cheedy Jaja, PhD, MPH, MSN, MN, PMHNP-BC, APRN, FAAN
Dr. Cheedy Jaja is an Associate Professor of Nursing whose passion for improving outcomes for sickle cell patients drives his global health research and clinical practice across the USA and Africa.
Dr. Jaja is one of only a few nurse scientists prepared to use pharmacogenetics strategies in pharmacotherapy for sickle cell disease. His groundbreaking work focuses on developing tailored pharmacogenetics algorithms that optimize drug selection, dosing, and monitoring strategies specifically for sickle cell disease pain management, leading to critical advancement for improving patient outcomes.
2026 Scientific Co-Chairs
Julia Xu, M.D., MScGH
2026 Scientific Co-Chair
Dr. Julia Z. Xu is an Assistant Professor of Medicine in the Division of Classical Hematology and the Vascular Medicine Institute at the University of Pittsburgh, where she specializes in caring for adults with sickle cell disease and other red blood cell disorders.
Charity Oyedeji, MD
2026 Scientific Co-Chair
Dr. Charity Oyedeji, MD is an Assistant Professor at Duke University in the Division of Hematology. Her research focuses on sickle cell disease and aging. She has earned several grants and awards through the NIH, American Society of Hematology.
Why We Host Symposia
Join healthcare providers, researchers, scientists, patients and supporters for one purpose: to better the lives of Sickle Cell Warriors. Learn about innovative research, treatments, and education to change the conversation and reshape the future of this genetic disorder.
2026 Scientific Planning Committee
Why We Host the Symposium
Transform Your Vision Into Funded Reality
Changing the Conversation, Reshaping the Future
Every symposium we host, whether our annual flagship event or targeted virtual gatherings, is designed to do more than share information. We’re changing the conversation around sickle cell disease. We’re showcasing innovative research and treatments that are transforming what’s possible. We’re elevating voices that have been ignored for too long.
Every June, the Annual Sickle Cell Disease Research and Educational Symposium and National Sickle Cell Disease Scientific Meeting brings the global sickle cell community together for our most comprehensive gathering of the year. This annual tradition draws leading researchers, physicians, clinicians, stakeholders, supporters, and social workers from around the world to share breakthrough research, learn from one another, and forge collaborations.
Whether you attend in person in Fort Lauderdale or participate virtually from anywhere in the world, you’ll be part of conversations that are actively reshaping the future of sickle cell care. Key presentations are live-streamed, and comprehensive recordings remain available after the event concludes, ensuring that groundbreaking knowledge reaches every corner of the global sickle cell community.
Continuing the Conversation Year-Round
We host focused virtual symposia throughout the year, each diving deep into specific topics critical to sickle cell care and research. These targeted events use the convenience and accessibility of virtual formats to keep our community connected, informed, and advancing.
These symposia ensure that healthcare providers stay current with best practices, researchers remain connected to their peers, and Sickle Cell Warriors have ongoing access to the latest information affecting their care.
Together, we’re reshaping the future.
WHO SHOULD PARTICIPATE?
Sickle Cell Researchers
Healthcare Professionals
Sickle Cell Warriors
Connect with others in the community and share your experiences. Be heard.
Pharmaceutical Reps
Community Supporters
Wraparound Services
The Grant Writing Institute
Transform Your Vision Into Funded Reality
Thursday, June 4, 2026
Who Should Attend?
The Grant Writing Institute gives you the tools, knowledge, and ongoing support to secure the funding your vision deserves.
The program combines live lessons, interactive workshops, and expert guidance. After the intensive training, you’ll have access to one full year of mentoring to help achieve your fundraising goals.
This intensive one-day training is specifically designed for leaders of community-based organizations, grassroots initiatives, patient groups, and local programs dedicated to improving the lives of those living with sickle cell disease. If you’re passionate about making a difference but struggle to secure the funding your mission deserves, this institute is for you.
Apply Now for The Grant Writing Institute
Betty S. Pace, MD
Founding Board Member
Wally R. Smith, MD
Founding Board Member
Dr. Mary LaMar
What to expect
Join healthcare providers, researchers, scientists, patients and supporters for one purpose: to better the lives of Sickle