Sickle Cell Foundation of Orange County

Sickle cell disease is a group of inherited blood disorders. The red blood cells become hard and sticky and look like a C-shaped farm tool called a “sickle.”

Sickle Cell Foundation spokesperson Charon Simmons was diagnosed at the age of five.

He says he’s had more pain in life than usual. And his life has changed, some for the worse and some for the better. He’s had to accept there are many things he’s unable to do because of the disease, like snowboarding due to the high altitude and cold weather.

Simmons says the disease has also been a blessing because he knows he can’t dwell on what he doesn’t have and more appreciative of the things he does have.

The Foundation is committed to increasing the public’s awareness of the disease.

Simmons, along with his mother, the organization’s founder, Star Simmons, are the guests on our public affairs show “Collage” which airs this evening at seven. “Collage” may also be heard anytime online on www.Jazz885.org