A Guide to College Transition for Sickle Cell Warriors

Whether attending college or seeking employment, reaching the age of 18 is often a time when young adults establish their independence from their family and take responsibility for their own needs. For a young person with sickle cell disease (SCD), these responsibilities are compounded by the need to transition from pediatric to adult care. Although this time can be stressful, support resources are available.

A Guide to College Transition for Sickle Cell Warriors, produced for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Health Resources and Services Administration by the Hemoglobinopathies National Coordinating Center, focuses on several key areas, including medical care, social and emotional well-being, and navigating college accommodations on campus. This helpful guide can be used by sickle cell warriors who are planning to attend college to share with their care team, caregivers, appropriate college staff, family, and friends, as they prepare to navigate a new environment and responsibilities.