Dalio Center

Sickle Cell Disease Awareness Campaign

Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) is a genetic blood disorder affecting about 100,000 Americans, most of whom are Black and Latino. In September 2024, the Dalio Center for Health Justice launched the #IBall4SickleCell campaign to empower individuals living with SCD and demonstrate our commitment to advancing research, care, and treatment. The initiative featured a limited-edition basketball with a crescent-shaped red panel, symbolizing a sickled red blood cell. Drawing on basketball’s cultural influence and legacy in social and health justice, we partnered with leaders in the sport to amplify the message. A companion website, www.sicklecellball.com, served as an educational hub, sharing facts, statistics, and personal stories. The campaign reached more than 300 million people and earned Bronze Lion and Bronze Clio Awards.