On Friday 19 June, the Paediatric Sickle Cell Team at Queen Elizabeth Hospital brought colleagues, patients and visitors together to mark World Sickle Cell Day with a fantastic awareness and fundraising cake sale in support of Lewisham and Greenwich NHS Trust Charity.

The event brought a real sense of community to the hospital, with staff, patients and visitors all stopping by to enjoy a delicious selection of homemade treats while learning more about sickle cell disease and the importance of raising awareness. The colourful display and warm welcome from the team created not only a lively atmosphere, but also an opportunity for meaningful conversations about the experiences of our young patients and their families/carers.

Thanks to the generosity and enthusiasm of everyone who contributed—whether by baking, donating or buying cakes—the event raised an impressive £263 for Lewisham and Greenwich NHS Trust Charity. These funds will help us continue to make a real difference to the lives of our youngest sickle cell patients, supporting projects and enhancements that improve their care, comfort and wellbeing.

Dr Adebola Debbie Sobande, Consultant Paediatrician with Special Interest In Sickle Cell Disease, Queen Elizabeth Hospital shared:

“The focus of this year’s campaign for World Sickle Cell Day was on young people living with Sickle Cell Disease. As a paediatric team, we are privileged to work in collaboration with stakeholders in and outside the trust to ensure that young people with sickle cell disease feel empowered and listened to. All the generous contributions and donations from the cake sale will be used to fund annual events for young people and their families that focuses on not just their condition but on what is important to them as children and young people”

Reflecting on the day, Margarita Vidiella, Head of Charity and Volunteers, shared:
“It was a real privilege to join the team on World Sickle Cell Day. Not only was it a brilliant way to raise sickle cell awareness and raise funds, but I also learnt so much about the condition and the challenges faced by our young patients and their families. I was particularly struck by the dedication of the team caring for our young sickle cell patients—events like this truly highlight the compassion, expertise and commitment that make such a difference every day.”

We extend a heartfelt thank you to the Paediatric Queen Elizabeth Hospital Woolwich Sickle Cell Team for their dedication, creativity and commitment in organising such a successful event. Their efforts not only raised vital funds, but also shone a light on sickle cell disease, helping to build greater understanding and support across our Trust.

Well done to everyone involved in making the day such a success—and for showing how small acts of kindness can come together to create a big impact.