Cayenne Wellness Center has announced its 5th Annual Hispanic Heritage Month Educational Summit, scheduled for September 15–16, 2026, at the Marriott Long Beach Downtown in Long Beach, California. The two-day event, which will also be available online, is designed to bring together sickle cell warriors, caregivers, healthcare professionals, advocates, community leaders, and families to address the unique challenges faced by Hispanic and Latino individuals affected by sickle cell disease.
The summit's timing is significant: September is National Sickle Cell Awareness Month, and September 15 marks the beginning of Hispanic Heritage Month. This convergence provides a timely opportunity to highlight the intersection of culture, health, and identity in the context of sickle cell disease. The programming will explore how country of origin and genetic background influence community-centered education, while offering practical tools for warriors to advocate for themselves and manage the disease, comorbidities, and related health concerns.
A key feature of the summit is the inclusion of lived experience through a warrior-led roundtable, where individuals living with sickle cell disease will share their perspectives directly with attendees. The program will also address the critical transition from pediatric to adult care, and will include breakout discussions on men's health, women's health, international sickle cell warriors, and domestic and international providers and caregivers.
In addition to educational sessions, the summit aims to strengthen relationships across the sickle cell community. Vendor and exhibitor tables are available for community-based organizations, businesses, healthcare organizations, authors, artists, educational institutions, and industry partners to share resources and connect with participants.
Registration is now open for all interested attendees, including sickle cell warriors, families, caregivers, healthcare professionals, advocates, and community organizations. Vendor and exhibitor opportunities are also available for those wishing to engage with the community.
This event is supported by key sponsors, including Beam Therapeutics, Inc. as a GOLD sponsor, and Chiesi USA, Inc. and Global Rare Diseases as SILVER sponsors. Their contributions are vital to making the summit possible.
Cayenne Wellness Center and Children's Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit established in 2000, is dedicated to improving the quality of life for individuals living with sickle cell disease in California. The organization provides expert, unbiased, and comprehensive care while promoting education, advocacy, and awareness. This summit underscores its commitment to health equity and culturally responsive support for underserved communities.
The summit's importance lies in its focus on a population often underrepresented in sickle cell discussions. By addressing cultural and genetic factors, the event aims to expand awareness and improve access to quality care for Hispanic and Latino individuals affected by the disease. As sickle cell disease disproportionately affects minority communities, initiatives like this are crucial for reducing health disparities and empowering patients through education and community connection.
For more information or to register, visit Cayenne Wellness Center's registration page. Vendor and exhibitor reservations can be made at this link.
