Members of the James R. Clark Sickle Cell Foundation receive a proclamation from Mayor Daniel J. Rickenmann and the Columbia City Council.
On September 16, 2025, the James R. Clark Memorial Sickle Cell Foundation (JRC), along with community partners, received a proclamation declaring September as National Sickle Cell Disease Awareness month from Mayor Daniel J. Rickenmann and the Columbia City Council. The Foundation’s mission is to optimize the social, psychological, and physiological well-being of individuals with sickle cell disease. The annual James R Clark Sickle Cell will be held Saturday, September 27, 2025 to commemorate the month on Saturday, September 27, 2025.
Chief Aubrey Jenkins of the Columbia Fire Department will serve as the 2025 Walk Ambassador. Chief Jenkins is a long-standing advocate, volunteer and supporter of the JRC Memorial Sickle Cell Foundation, has advocated and supported the mission and assisted in educating the public regarding sickle cell disease.
The event is an opportunity to honor children, adults, and families living with sickle cell disease and to honor those we have lost. Proceeds raise money for the James R. Clark Memorial Scholarship fund. The walk was envisioned by Peggy Funny, whose daughter Kharlybia is affected by sickle cell disease and continues the legacy of Dr. James R. Clark who was a trailblazer in improving medical treatment for sickle cell patients. Participants can register at strictlyrunning.com or download registration packets at jamesrclarksicklecell. org. Registrants can also call the Foundation @ 803765-9916 or (803)447-8600 for additional information.
