SCD Soldier Network, Inc.

When we first started out, we were focused on addressing adult issues as it relates to Sickle Cell Disease. It wasn't until many of the parents stood up and informed us that things were no better for the kids than they were for the adults battling the disorder. One of our parents went a step further and donated her time to the Soldier Network to help bring awareness to the need for a louder voice.  In honor of her efforts we are adding Tiny Soldiers to our network. This group includes anyone who is under the age of 13. If you have children who have Sickle Cell Disease, the trait or they are affected by sickle cell in any way, allow them to join the Tiny Soldier Network and support Zayyir Tucker the young man heading up that project. To send Zayyir a message you may e-mail him at tiny_soldiers@scdsoldiernetwork.com. A link to his facebook page can be found on the Front-Line Soldier section of this website. The Tiny Soldiers will make a major impact as they bring awareness in a way that has never been done before.  Those who are between the ages 13-18 will become a part of our Transitional Soldiers Network and will be mentored through our adult group.

A Parents Viewpoint

LaToya Tucker has dealt with medical bills and hospital stays that have moved her into action. There is nowhere to turn, when you are married and have a child with Sickle Cell Disease, who is running up extraordinary medical bills.  Who is supposed to leave their job when their child is hospitalized for weeks at a time or can't go to school for months on end? I guess the mother does, because that's what mother's do. In today's economy it's not feasible to take a leave of absence from work every time your child gets sick. We will find the answer to this problem or we will make a lot of noise while we are looking for an answer.

A Child's Viewpoint

Zayyir Tucker is a bright eyed 8-year old who has Sickle Cell Disease. He has been involved in a long battle that has kept him out of school for months. Zayyir ask questions like why am I different and he wonders if he will ever go to college. His lungs and heart have taken a real beating, but in true soldier style he is fighting back. When he was presented with the opportunity to head up the Tiny Soldier Network he jumped in with both feet. He's not like other kids, he's a soldier. Join the Tiny soldiers as they show us adults how its done.