Curated News
By: NewsRamp Editorial Staff
January 22, 2026
Cayenne Wellness Marks 25 Years with Star-Studded Gala for Sickle Cell Support
TLDR
- Cayenne Wellness Center's 25th Anniversary Gala offers networking with celebrities like Byron Scott while supporting mental health initiatives for sickle cell disease.
- The gala on January 22, 2026, features performances and celebrity hosts, with proceeds funding mental health, education, and community resources for sickle cell patients.
- This event celebrates 25 years of improving lives for sickle cell families, funding wellness programs that extend healing beyond clinical care.
- Celebrities like KiKi Shepard and Lester Barrie will join musical acts Dessy and Ric'Key at this milestone gala supporting sickle cell advocacy.
Impact - Why it Matters
This news matters because sickle cell disease is a serious, lifelong genetic blood disorder that disproportionately affects Black and African American communities, causing chronic pain, organ damage, and reduced life expectancy. The work of organizations like Cayenne Wellness Center is critical, as they provide the comprehensive, non-clinical support—mental health services, education, and community resources—that traditional healthcare systems often lack. Their 25-year milestone highlights sustained advocacy in an area that has historically been underfunded and overlooked. The involvement of major pharmaceutical sponsors like Pfizer, Agios, Fulcrum, and Novo Nordisk signals growing corporate recognition and investment in sickle cell research and patient support, which can accelerate treatment advancements and improve health equity. For patients, families, and caregivers, this event and the foundation's work translate to tangible resources, reduced isolation, and a stronger collective voice, directly impacting daily quality of life and long-term health outcomes.
Summary
The Cayenne Wellness Center and Children's Foundation is celebrating a monumental 25 years of service with its 25th Anniversary Fundraising Gala. This milestone event, set to be an evening of celebration and community, will feature live musical performances by Dessy and Ric'Key, with special appearances by television personality KiKi Shepard, NBA legend Byron Scott, and comedian Lester Barrie. The program will be energetically hosted by emcees Dexter Darden and J Snow, creating a vibrant atmosphere dedicated to honoring resilience and collective progress in the fight against sickle cell disease.
More than just a festive gathering, the gala is a crucial fundraising initiative. Proceeds will directly support the organization's vital mental health and wellness initiatives, education programs, and community-based resources for individuals and families living with sickle cell disease throughout California. The event underscores the foundation's core belief that true healing extends far beyond clinical care, emphasizing holistic support. Those interested in attending this impactful celebration are encouraged to register here before the deadline of 5 PM PST on January 24, 3026, to secure their participation in this landmark occasion.
The success of this significant anniversary event is bolstered by the generous support of key corporate partners. Pharmaceutical leader Pfizer serves as the Platinum Sponsor, demonstrating its commitment to community health innovation. Agios and Fulcrum Therapeutics participate as Gold Sponsors, providing essential backing for education and wellness initiatives. The organization also gratefully acknowledges Novo Nordisk as the Silver Sponsor, whose contribution strengthens efforts to advance health equity and comprehensive care. Founded in 2000, the Cayenne Wellness Center and Children's Foundation remains a trusted 501(c)(3) nonprofit leader, dedicated through expert, unbiased programming to improving quality of life, advancing education, and advocating for individuals impacted by sickle cell disease. The public can follow the organization's ongoing journey and get involved through its various digital platforms, including CayenneWellness.org.
Source Statement
This curated news summary relied on content disributed by 24-7 Press Release. Read the original source here, Cayenne Wellness Marks 25 Years with Star-Studded Gala for Sickle Cell Support
