HISTORY
Organized in 1960, founded in 1972, and incorporated in 1977, the Sickle Cell Disease Association of America / Ohio Sickle Cell and Health Association (OSCHA) was established from the need to provide a funding mechanism for adults with sickle cell disease who were medically indigent; with the focus, and intent to solve sickle cell disease, in the context of broader, societal issues, facing Ohio’s children, minorities and poor.
MISSION
To provide education, advocacy, and support to persons and families affected and at-risk for sickle cell disease through effective approaches to sickle cell services
PURPOSE AND OBJECTIVES
- To have a stake in and be concerned about health problems as they relate to the underserved population in Ohio
- To serve as coordinating body for sickle cell trait, sickle cell disease, hemoglobinopathies, and other health activities across the state of Ohio
- To serve as a resource base for sickle cell programs and health organizations
- To develop support for affected individuals and families
- To educate and inform the professional and lay communities about the sickle cell phenomena and other health issues