Bronson Receives Grant to Grow Sickle Cell Care Program for Adults
Bronson to enhance lifespan care for kids and adults living with sickle cell disease
KALAMAZOO, Mich. — Ahead of World Sickle Cell Day on June 19, Bronson Healthcare is highlighting continued progress in expanding coordinated, specialized care for children and adults living with sickle cell disease (SCD) in Southwest Michigan.
Bronson has received approximately $300,000 in state funding since 2023 to strengthen care for patients living with SCD in our community, with a heavy focus on the pediatric population. The latest award, an $80,000 grant from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS), will support continued expansion of that work, but with special attention to adult patients.
“About one in 13 African Americans carry the sickle cell trait, and many do not know it,” said Kirsten Bonifacio, PhD, lead pediatric psychologist at Bronson Children’s Hospital and principal investigator of the Sickle Cell Clinic Expansion and Enhancement Program. “Our goal is that any child who is born with sickle cell disease (both parents either have sickle cell trait or disease) can receive their care at Bronson and that their care continues throughout their lifespan, right here in our own community. Ultimately, we want to keep growing Bronson’s program so more people affected by SCD can access the specialized care they deserve when they need it, to live healthier, fuller lives.”
Bronson cares for approximately 120 patients with SCD, from birth through age 72. Pediatric patients are seen at Bronson Methodist Hospital, with an additional pediatric satellite monthly clinic in St. Joseph, Mich.
The grant will be used to fund additional dedicated nursing staff, expand staff education and help more patients access Children’s Special Health Care Services coverage and multidisciplinary support.
Categorized as a rare disease, an estimated 100,000 people in the U.S. have the inherited blood disorder. SCD can lead to severe pain, anemia, infections, organ damage and other serious health complications. Because it requires specialized, ongoing management throughout a person’s life, access to coordinated, multidisciplinary care is critical for improving quality of life and long-term health outcomes.
Learn more about Bronson’s Sickle Cell Program.
