2022 INITIATIVES
MARU Advocates launched two initiatives in 2022. Our belief is that communication and education frame the gateway for the change we are seeking. While educating the public about sickle cell is crucial, we are devoted to contributing directly to the individuals and families impacted by the disease. Our scholarship program is designed to support educational pursuits. The qualifications required to earn the scholarship involve the participants' ability to effectively promote awareness of sickle cell. The second initiative enables us to make a more immediate and personal impact in the sickle cell community with Compassion Packs that we will donate to the Children's Hospital Sickle Cell wards. Each pack is filled with items that we hope will boost the spirits of hospitalized children.
IRIS Scholarship Program
The purpose of a scholarship is to encourage and reward excellence. It should also lessen the financial burden of the cost of education. The quest to earn the scholarship should expand the mind of the applicant.
With those factors in mind, MARU Advocates is building a scholarship fund to reward ingenuity and craftmanship in developing and delivering a message about sickle cell disease using TikTok or YouTube. The message or public service announcement must meet criteria that is defined in the application.
Proceeds from our annual 'Bye Sickle Cell Bicycle Day" benefit the scholarship fund. Direct donations a welcome.
Compassion Packs
To be hospitalized during a sickle cell crisis is a devastating experience. MARU Advocates is creating Compassion Packs complete with soft and comforting items as an expression of our support and hope for a quick recovery. Your donations and participation in events like our annual fitness fundraiser held recognition of World Sickle Cell Disease Awareness Day make it possible for us to spread a little joy when it is needed most.
A Glimpse into the Future of
MARU Advocates
Tracy Estelle, President/CEO
I am overwhelmed by the kindness of people when there is a cause to rally around. When I tell my story of why I advocate, I am met with unequivocal support. It prompts me to do more and keep doing more. Because the response I get when I explain what is needed tells me that if people know what I know, they will get involved, they will help out, they will give. Five years from now I expect to see the IRIS Scholarship Program in full bloom, and I expect the messaging from the applicants- that will surely reach people worldwide- to ignite the change I long to see with respect to the care, concern, and treatment of Sickle Cell Disease.