Summits for Sickle Cell
September 24–28, 2025
Summits for Sickle Cell 2025
The 2025 Summits for Sickle Cell event in Colorado brought together a committed team of advocates, clinicians, researchers, and biotech leaders for an unforgettable high-altitude adventure in support of Sickle Forward's mission.[reference:0]
Over four days in the Collegiate Peaks Wilderness, the team hiked these beautiful mountains and raised critical awareness and funding for early diagnosis and life-saving treatment for children with sickle cell disease in Africa.[reference:1]
More than a fundraiser, the Colorado summit reflected the power of shared challenge, community, and purpose to drive meaningful progress for children and families affected by sickle cell disease.[reference:2]
The Challenge: Assault of the Collegiate Peaks
Ptarmigan Lake Trail (12,232ft): 6.1 miles, 1,500ft of elevation gain. Optional scramble to the summit of Jones Mountain (13,104ft) with beautiful views over Ptarmigan Lake.[reference:3]
Mt. Elbert (14,433ft): The tallest mountain in Colorado. The summit gave us unlimited views of the Sawatch Range and neighboring Mt. Massive (the 2nd tallest mountain in CO). 10 miles and 4,500ft of elevation gain.[reference:4]
Mt. Shavano (14,158ft): This hike made for a long and rewarding day! We started and finished with our headlamps on.[reference:5]
The great success of the 2025 Summits for Sickle Cell benefit event would not have been possible without the support of our amazing corporate sponsors and individual donors![reference:7]
Sickle cell disease is the most common inherited disorder of the red blood cell, affecting over 6 million people around the world. SCD is a chronic, painful, debilitating illness that disproportionally affects individuals from malaria endemic parts of the world. Its highest rate of prevalence is in sub-Saharan Africa.[reference:8]
While recent advancements in research and treatment in the US and Europe have been promising, SCD continues to be a 'forgotten' illness for individuals living in the global regions where resources are limited.[reference:9]
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Event:
Summits for Sickle Cell 2025
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Date:
September 24–28, 2025
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Location:
Salida, Colorado
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Elevation:
Up to 14,433ft (Mt. Elbert)
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Raised:
$300,000+
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Category:
Fundraiser, Advocacy, Trek
Honorary Participants
- Victoria Gray – First patient to receive CRISPR gene-editing therapy for SCD
- Tesha Samuels – Founder, Journey to ExSCellence; gene therapy recipient
- Jimi Olaghere – Sickle cell warrior; global advocate; Casgevy recipient
