On July 13th, 2024, the Save The Sicklers (STS) organization celebrated the launch of its University chapter at Egerton University. The event was an unforgettable day filled with inspiration, knowledge, and meaningful connections.

The day began with a warm welcome from Lucy Moraa, whose dedication to the cause set the stage for the day’s events. The Executive Director, Brigid Aroko, then introduced the remarkable STS founding team, setting a powerful tone for what would be an empowering experience. Isaac Owino Okeno, the Founder of STS, followed with a heartfelt story about the origins of the organization. Founded in memory of his brother, Isaac shared the deep personal motivations behind STS and elaborated on the vision and mission that drive its work. This poignant narrative touched everyone present, highlighting the importance of the organization’s efforts.

Lucy Moraa continued with an exciting presentation of the programs planned for the STS Club at Egerton University. Her enthusiasm was infectious, igniting a sense of excitement among the students and underscoring the club's potential to make a real difference.

Dr. Wambugu, the Patron of the STS Club at Egerton, provided an insightful overview of Sickle Cell Disease (SCD). His presentation was both educational and impactful, raising awareness and deepening the understanding of this critical health issue among attendees.

The highlight of the morning was the keynote address by Dr. Frederick Okinyi, Chairperson of the Sickle Cell Federation of Kenya. His powerful speech focused on the need to break the cycle of normalcy surrounding Sickle Cell Disease, challenging everyone present to take action. Dr. Okinyi’s words left a lasting impression, inspiring attendees to become advocates for change.

The morning session concluded with a lively networking and entertainment segment, offering a chance for students, lecturers, founders, doctors, and various stakeholders to connect and celebrate this significant milestone. The vibrant atmosphere continued into a delightful lunch buffet, where conversations flowed, and connections were forged.

The afternoon session was equally engaging, with a strong focus on research and innovation. Attendees were treated to enlightening talks from several distinguished speakers, including Khadija Hussein, a renowned researcher, Bahati Innocent, a visionary innovator, and Lennox Omondi, the CEO of Ecobana. Each speaker brought a unique perspective, enriching the conversation around Sickle Cell Disease and its management.

The event concluded on a high note with a celebratory cake-cutting ceremony, marking the successful launch of the STS Clubs University chapter at Egerton University. The day was not just a celebration but a powerful step forward in the fight against Sickle Cell Disease, leaving all who attended inspired and ready to make a difference.

Save the Sicklers, a dynamic team from Kabarak University, proudly showcased their innovative project, ThermoSoothe, at the Enactus 22nd Expo on July 25th and 26th. ThermoSoothe is more than just a device; it represents a significant breakthrough in the management of sickle cell disease (SCD), a condition that affects millions worldwide. The project was meticulously designed to address one of the most challenging aspects of living with SCD—the excruciating pain that accompanies sickle cell crises. By combining thermal massage with advanced air pressure technology, ThermoSoothe offers a much-needed solution that promises to improve the quality of life for those battling this chronic illness. Sickle cell disease is a genetic disorder that causes red blood cells to deform into a sickle shape, leading to painful blockages in blood vessels. These blockages, known as sickle cell crises, result in severe pain, organ damage, and other serious complications. For many patients, managing this pain is a daily struggle that often requires hospitalization and heavy reliance on pain medications, which can have long-term side effects. ThermoSoothe directly addresses this critical issue by offering a non-invasive, drug-free method to alleviate pain. The device's dual-action approach not only provides immediate relief but also helps in reducing the frequency and intensity of these painful episodes. The importance of ThermoSoothe cannot be overstated, as it represents a beacon of hope for those living with sickle cell disease. The device empowers patients to take control of their pain management in a way that was previously unavailable. It is particularly significant in regions with limited access to healthcare, where hospital visits for pain management may not be feasible. By providing a portable, user-friendly solution, ThermoSoothe ensures that patients can manage their condition more effectively and with greater independence, reducing the burden on both themselves and the healthcare system. The team's dedication and innovative spirit were rightfully recognized at the Enactus National Expo, where they emerged as winners. This victory is not just a testament to the brilliance of the ThermoSoothe device but also to the team's unwavering commitment to making a difference in the lives of sickle cell patients. Now, as they prepare to represent Kenya on the global stage in Astana, Kazakhstan, in October 2024, they carry with them the hopes of many who believe in the potential of ThermoSoothe to transform the landscape of sickle cell care. Their journey is a powerful reminder of how innovation, driven by compassion, can lead to solutions that change lives.