HANDS OF HOPE FOUNDATION
Cecelia Mitchell made a life altering decision years ago. She left her job and created her foundation, Hands of Hope. The nonprofit was born from a deeply personal place.
“I have a grandson that suffers with sickle cell disease and also my sister who passed away in August of 2019 from complications of sickle cell disease,” says Mitchell.
Mitchell immediately wanted to help, trying to offer the gift of life, donating blood for transfusions, an often must need treatment for this debilitating blood disorder.
“I want to be able to give back to the Sickle Cell community,” said Mitchell.
Mitchell has made it her mission to support patients and raise awareness.
Reminders of fundraisers are prominently displayed in her office. The proceeds benefit Sickle Cell patients. Patients who suffer from the disease don’t have enough healthy red blood cells that are essential for carrying oxygen throughout the body.
Hands of Hope opened its door in 2013. Since then staff and volunteers have helped countless people. They offer many services including counseling in the offices and at the hospital.
Sickle Cell disease has left Alpha Russell unable to work. She’s needed as many six transfusions a year.
“It gave me a boost of energy. It would keep me out of the hospital longer than usual.” says Russell.
It’s why Russell is joining Cecelia’s cause by spreading the word and the women say they can’t do it alone.
“Thank God for organizations like OneBlood and thank God for the people that donate to OneBlood,” said Mitchell.
“It is awesome what Miss Cecelia is doing and what OneBlood is doing,” said Russell.
Mitchell adds, “it is a year round need”.
“Sickle Cell is 24-7, 356 days a year,” said Mitchell.
They hope, the next time you see a Big Red Bus or a donation center, you will answer the call.
“They need blood year round, so if they could have readily available for the Sickle Cell community. They would greatly appreciate it,” said Mitchell.
To learn more about Hands of Hope and how to donate click here.