Cheat Codes: A Sickle Cell Podcast

BloodStream Media

Cheat Codes is a podcast about sickle cell disease and is intended for patients, caregivers,
providers, and the greater community of people who are impacted by it. Each episode of Cheat
Codes: A Sickle Cell Podcast strives to provide listeners with critical education, the latest
scientific updates, and voices from the sickle cell community. Join an inclusive community and
build connections with other hemolytic anemia allies by following @AllyVoicesRising on
Instagram. Cheat Codes: A Sickle Cell Podcast is sponsored by Agios Pharmaceuticals Inc.
Visit Agios.com to learn more.

This podcast is intended for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as
medical advice. Please speak with your healthcare professional before making any treatment
decisions.

Play

Open in

20 episodes
monthly
Avg 37 min
English

Episodes 20

Newest Oldest Longest

All20 Unplayed20 In progress0 Played0

S2 · E47
September 16 · 37 min· Video
Warrior Takeover with Brian Goff, CEO of Agios Pharmaceuticals
In this special Sickle Cell Warrior Takeover of Cheat Codes, Kyle Smith and Shamonica Wiggins-Mayes sit down with Brian Goff, CEO of Agios Pharmaceuticals, for a candid conversation about the relationship between the sickle cell community and the biopharma industry. They discuss what meaningful partnership looks like, why trust must be earned over time, and how listening to people with lived experience can shape research, education, and drug development. Brian also reflects on what he has learned from the sickle cell community, while Kyle and Shamonica share what they want industry leaders to better understand about the realities of living with sickle cell disease. SHOW DESCRIPTION Cheat Codes is intended for patients, caregivers, providers, and the greater community of people who are impacted by Sickle Cell Disease. Each episode, Cheat Codes strives to provide listeners with critical education, the latest scientific updates, and voices from the Sickle Cell community. Join an inclusive community and build connections with other hemolytic anemia allies by following @AllyVoicesRising on Instagram. TRANSPARENCY STATEMENT Cheat Codes: A Sickle Cell Podcast is made possible by Agios Pharmaceuticals Inc. Visit Agios.com to learn more. The following Agios-supported programs are intended for informational and educational purposes only and are not intended as medical advice. Please speak with your healthcare professional before making any treatment decisions. Hosts Drs. Ahmar Zaidi and Mike Callaghan are Agios employees. Guests have been compensated for their time.
S2 · E44
August 26 · 23 min· Video
Legends of Sickle Cell - Dr. Miguel Abboud (Arabic Edition)
This special episode of Cheat Codes marks the podcast's first-ever conversation in Arabic, expanding the global reach of sickle cell education and advocacy. Dr. Miguel Abboud, a pioneer in sickle cell disease and longtime leader at the American University of Beirut, joins Dr. Karim Osman for an in-depth discussion on care across the lifespan, research advancements, and challenges facing patients in the Arab world. Together, they explore newborn screening, access to treatment, and the future of sickle cell care for Arabic-speaking communities worldwide. SHOW DESCRIPTION Cheat Codes is intended for patients, caregivers, providers, and the greater community of people who are impacted by Sickle Cell Disease. Each episode, Cheat Codes strives to provide listeners with critical education, the latest scientific updates, and voices from the Sickle Cell community. Join an inclusive community and build connections with other hemolytic anemia allies by following @AllyVoicesRising on Instagram. TRANSPARENCY STATEMENT Cheat Codes: A Sickle Cell Podcast is made possible by Agios Pharmaceuticals Inc. Visit Agios.com to learn more. The following Agios-supported programs are intended for informational and educational purposes only and are not intended as medical advice. Please speak with your healthcare professional before making any treatment decisions. Host and guests featured in this episode have been compensated for their time.
August 12 · 29 min· Video
Legends of Sickle Cell - Dr. Miguel Abboud
In this inspiring Legends of Sickle Cell episode of Cheat Codes, Dr. Z and Dr. C sit down with Dr. Miguel Abboud, a global leader whose work has shaped modern sickle cell care for decades. Dr. Abboud shares the pivotal patient stories that guided his career, his groundbreaking contributions to transplantation, acute chest syndrome research, and stroke prevention, and the international perspective he brings from working across Lebanon, the United States, Africa, and India. He reflects on the mentors who influenced him, the ongoing challenges of access to care worldwide, and the urgent need to expand treatments to low- and middle-income countries. This is a powerful conversation with a true pioneer whose impact continues to guide the future of sickle cell medicine. SHOW DESCRIPTION Cheat Codes is intended for patients, caregivers, providers, and the greater community of people who are impacted by Sickle Cell Disease. Each episode, Cheat Codes strives to provide listeners with critical education, the latest scientific updates, and voices from the Sickle Cell community. Join an inclusive community and build connections with other hemolytic anemia allies by following @AllyVoicesRising on Instagram.
S2 · E47
July 7 · 38 min
Understanding How Treatments Get Approved - What It Means for You
Dr. Z and Dr. C sit down with Dr. Sarah Gheuens, Chief Medical Officer and Head of R&D at Agios Pharmaceuticals, to break down one of the most frequently heard but least understood terms in the treatment conversation: FDA approval. From the phases of clinical development and the role of regulators, to the difference between traditional and accelerated approval pathways, Dr. Gheuens demystifies the science and the process in plain language. They also discuss why asking questions of physicians about their care is one of the most important things a patient can do. SHOW DESCRIPTION Cheat Codes is intended for patients, caregivers, providers, and the greater community of people who are impacted by Sickle Cell Disease. Each episode, Cheat Codes strives to provide listeners with critical education, the latest scientific updates, and voices from the Sickle Cell community. Join an inclusive community and build connections with other hemolytic anemia allies by following @AllyVoicesRising on Instagram. TRANSPARENCY STATEMENT Cheat Codes: A Sickle Cell Podcast is made possible by Agios Pharmaceuticals Inc. Visit Agios.com to learn more. The following Agios-supported programs are intended for informational and educational purposes only and are not intended as medical advice. Please speak with your healthcare professional before making any treatment decisions. Hosts Drs. Ahmar Zaidi and Mike Callaghan are Agios employees.
June 19 · 50 min
REPLAY: Good Sickle Cell Care
To commemorate World Sickle Cell Day 2026, the Cheat Codes podcast is re-releasing this powerful live episode from the 2025 National Alliance of Sickle Cell Centers (NASCC) meeting. In this episode, Dr. Z and Dr. C are joined by a powerhouse panel: Dr. Payal Desai, Dr. Seethal Jacob, Dr. Pat McGann, and Dr. Andy Ellner to unpack what truly defines great sickle cell care. It's a topic well in line with the theme of this year's World Sickle Cell Day, "Closing the Survival Gap: Equity in Sickle Cell Care." SHOW DESCRIPTION Cheat Codes is intended for patients, caregivers, providers, and the greater community of people who are impacted by Sickle Cell Disease. With each episode, Cheat Codes strives to provide listeners with critical education, the latest scientific updates, and voices from the Sickle Cell community. Join an inclusive community and build connections with other hemolytic anemia allies by following @AllyVoicesRising on Instagram.
S2 · E42
April 23 · 51 min
Sickle Cell in the Media: Scene & Heard - SCDAA Masterclass
This SCDAA Masterclass, a special episode of Cheat Codes, was recorded live at the Sickle Cell Disease Association of America, Inc. (SCDAA) 2025 Annual National Convention in Chicago and explores the portrayal of sickle cell disease in the media. Panelists share personal stories and discuss the importance of authentic representation, highlighting both the challenges and progress in raising awareness. The conversation emphasizes the power of storytelling to drive advocacy, reduce stigma, and humanize the experiences of those living with sickle cell disease. Listeners will hear insights from patients, filmmakers, and advocates on how media can shape public understanding and support for the sickle cell community. We also hear opening remarks from Brian Goff, CEO of Agios Pharmaceuticals. Learn more about the Sickle Cell Disease Masterclass Series at https://scdaamasterclass.com/ To hear more episodes of Cheat Codes: A Sickle Cell Podcast, please visit https://www.bloodstreammedia.com/cheat-codes
S2 · E41
April 2 · 39 min
Renal Complications with Sickle Cell Disease
In this powerful episode of Cheat Codes, Dr. Z and Dr. C sit down with Dr. Santosh Saraf, one of the leading experts on kidney disease in sickle cell, to break down why renal complications are so common yet often overlooked. Dr. Saraf walks listeners through the early warning signs, the importance of routine monitoring, and how albuminuria, creatinine, and cystatin C can signal kidney stress long before symptoms appear. The discussion explores how anemia, hemolysis, blood pressure, and even treatment choices influence long-term kidney health, along with emerging therapies that offer new hope for protection and repair. This is an essential conversation for anyone living with sickle cell disease or caring for someone who is. SHOW DESCRIPTION Cheat Codes is intended for patients, caregivers, providers, and the greater community of people who are impacted by Sickle Cell Disease. Each episode, Cheat Codes strives to provide listeners with critical education, the latest scientific updates, and voices from the Sickle Cell community. Join an inclusive community and build connections with other hemolytic anemia allies by following @AllyVoicesRising on Instagram. TRANSPARENCY STATEMENT Cheat Codes: A Sickle Cell Podcast is made possible by Agios Pharmaceuticals Inc. Visit Agios.com to learn more. The following Agios-supported programs are intended for informational and educational purposes only and are not intended as medical advice. Please speak with your healthcare professional before making any treatment decisions. Hosts and guest featured in this episode have been compensated for their time.
S2 · E40
February 28 · 30 min
Learnings from the Red Cell Revolution
This special crossover episode brings together advocates from PK deficiency, thalassemia, and sickle cell disease to share insights from the Red Cell Revolution and the powerful connections formed across rare hemolytic anemias. NinaMaria Badalamenti leads a heartfelt conversation with Jill Welle, Laurice Levine, and Cassandra Trimnell about the common challenges these communities face, from fatigue to stigma to navigating complex care. Together, they explore how collaboration, shared education, and collective advocacy strengthen each individual movement. The episode offers hope, perspective, and a reminder that these rare-disease communities are stronger together. SHOW DESCRIPTION Thal Pals: The Alpha Beta Revolution Podcast is intended for patients, caregivers, providers, and the greater community of people who are impacted by thalassemia. Each episode strives to provide listeners with critical education, the latest scientific updates, and voices from the thalassemia community. Learn more about thalassemia by visiting RethinkThalassemia.com. Join an inclusive community and build connections with other hemolytic anemia allies by following @AllyVoicesRising on Instagram. Thal Pals is sponsored by Agios Pharmaceuticals Inc. Visit Agios.com to learn more. This podcast is intended for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please speak with your healthcare professional before making any treatment decisions. TRANSPARENCY STATEMENT Thal Pals: The Alpha Beta Revolution Podcast is made possible by Agios Pharmaceuticals Inc. Visit Agios.com to learn more. The following Agios-supported programs are intended for informational and educational purposes only and are not intended as medical advice. Please speak with your healthcare professional before making any treatment decisions. Host and guests featured in this episode have been compensated for their time.
S2 · E39
January 28 · 42 min
Health Related Quality of Life Metrics & Health Outcomes in SCD
In this episode of Cheat Codes, Dr. Z and Dr. C sit down with Dr. Nirmish Shah of Duke University for a deep dive into how technology, wearables, and patient-reported outcomes are transforming the way clinicians measure quality of life in sickle cell disease. Dr. Shah shares the evolution of his work tracking daily symptoms, passive data, and long-term trends, and explains how these insights can help predict complications, personalize care, and strengthen the patient–provider relationship. The conversation explores everything from AI-driven analytics to hospital-based monitoring, highlighting how data can support—not replace—the human side of medicine. This episode offers a fascinating look at the future of sickle cell care and the innovations shaping it today. To hear the episode with Dr. Charles Jonassiant and Jude Jonassiant referenced in the episode, CLICK HERE. SHOW DESCRIPTION Cheat Codes is intended for patients, caregivers, providers, and the greater community of people who are impacted by Sickle Cell Disease. Each episode, Cheat Codes strives to provide listeners with critical education, the latest scientific updates, and voices from the Sickle Cell community. Join an inclusive community and build connections with other hemolytic anemia allies by following @AllyVoicesRising on Instagram. TRANSPARENCY STATEMENT Cheat Codes: A Sickle Cell Podcast is made possible by Agios Pharmaceuticals Inc. Visit Agios.com to learn more. The following Agios-supported programs are intended for informational and educational purposes only and are not intended as medical advice. Please speak with your healthcare professional before making any treatment decisions. Hosts and guest featured in this episode have been compensated for their time.
S2 · E38
Dec 17, 2025 · 26 min
Rising Stars in Sickle Cell: Dr. Sharl Azar
In this episode of Cheat Codes, Dr. Sharl Azar joins the hosts to discuss his journey from Oregon to leading the sickle cell program at Mass General in Boston. Dr. Azar shares the pivotal moments that inspired his passion for hematology and advocacy, including his work on groundbreaking legislation to improve care for sickle cell patients in Massachusetts. The conversation highlights the importance of community, systemic change, and the lived experiences of patients. Listeners will be inspired by Dr. Azar's commitment to equity, collaboration, and building a brighter future for those affected by sickle cell disease. SHOW DESCRIPTION Cheat Codes is intended for patients, caregivers, providers, and the greater community of people who are impacted by Sickle Cell Disease. Each episode, Cheat Codes strives to provide listeners with critical education, the latest scientific updates, and voices from the Sickle Cell community. Join an inclusive community and build connections with other hemolytic anemia allies by following @AllyVoicesRising on Instagram. TRANSPARENCY STATEMENT Cheat Codes: A Sickle Cell Podcast is made possible by Agios Pharmaceuticals Inc. Visit Agios.com to learn more. The following Agios-supported programs are intended for informational and educational purposes only and are not intended as medical advice. Please speak with your healthcare professional before making any treatment decisions. Host and guests featured in this episode have been compensated for their time.
S2 · E37
Nov 19, 2025 · 13 min
Driving Change: MiCaringHeart & the Fight for Sickle Cell Care
On this episode, Dr. Z and Dr. C welcome Shayan Siddiqui, founder of MiCaringHeart, to discuss his impactful work supporting sickle cell patients in Detroit. Shayan shares how his family's experiences inspired initiatives like Cabs for Kids, providing transportation to medical appointments, and Outsmart, offering free tutoring for children with chronic illnesses. The conversation highlights the challenges of healthcare access and the power of community-driven solutions. For more information about MiCaringHeart, visit https://www.micaringheart.com/ SHOW DESCRIPTION Cheat Codes is intended for patients, caregivers, providers, and the greater community of people who are impacted by Sickle Cell Disease. Each episode, Cheat Codes strives to provide listeners with critical education, the latest scientific updates, and voices from the Sickle Cell community. Join an inclusive community and build connections with other hemolytic anemia allies by following @AllyVoicesRising on Instagram. TRANSPARENCY STATEMENT Cheat Codes: A Sickle Cell Podcast is made possible by Agios Pharmaceuticals Inc. Visit Agios.com to learn more. The following Agios-supported programs are intended for informational and educational purposes only and are not intended as medical advice. Please speak with your healthcare professional before making any treatment decisions. Host and guests featured in this episode have been compensated for their time.
S2 · E36
Nov 5, 2025 · 46 min
'So What Did I Miss?': A Recap of the 2023/2024 NASCC Meeting
In this special episode of Cheat Codes, Dr. Z and Dr. C hand the co-hosting mic to Dr. Julie Kanter for a lively walk through the history of the National Alliance of Sickle Cell Centers (NASCC) annual meetings. Alongside Dr. Sophie Lanzkron, Dr. Francis Coyne, and Dr. Alexis Leonard, they revisit key moments from 2022's belly-dancing dinner to 2025's record-breaking Vermont gathering. The conversation covers how NASCC consensus topics like pain management, iron overload, gene therapy readiness, and defining a "sickle cell specialist" have evolved year-to-year. Packed with behind-the-scenes stories, professional insights, and a look at NASCC's growing impact, this episode captures how a community of experts is shaping the future of sickle cell care. For more information on the National Alliance of Sickle Cell Centers (NASCC), please visit: https://sicklecellcenters.org/ SHOW DESCRIPTION Cheat Codes is intended for patients, caregivers, providers, and the greater community of people who are impacted by Sickle Cell Disease. Each episode, Cheat Codes strives to provide listeners with critical education, the latest scientific updates, and voices from the Sickle Cell community. Join an inclusive community and build connections with other hemolytic anemia allies by following @AllyVoicesRising on Instagram. TRANSPARENCY STATEMENT Cheat Codes: A Sickle Cell Podcast is made possible by Agios Pharmaceuticals Inc. Visit Agios.com to learn more. The following Agios-supported programs are intended for informational and educational purposes only and are not intended as medical advice. Please speak with your healthcare professional before making any treatment decisions. Host and guests featured in this episode have been compensated for their time.
S2 · E35
Oct 22, 2025 · 39 min
Rising Stars in Sickle Cell: Dr. Alyssa Schlenz
In this Rising Star episode from the NASCC meeting in Stowe, Vermont, Dr. Z and Dr. C spotlight Dr. Alyssa Schlenz, a psychologist transforming sickle cell care through early developmental screening and neuropsychological support. Dr. Schlenz shares her journey into the field, the critical role of prevention and early intervention, and the unique challenges faced by patients with neurodevelopmental disorders. She explains how routine, relationship-based screenings can identify issues early, reduce stigma, and improve long-term outcomes. This inspiring conversation highlights the power of psychology in comprehensive sickle cell care and the promising future being shaped by dedicated new leaders. SHOW DESCRIPTION Cheat Codes is intended for patients, caregivers, providers, and the greater community of people who are impacted by Sickle Cell Disease. Each episode, Cheat Codes strives to provide listeners with critical education, the latest scientific updates, and voices from the Sickle Cell community. Join an inclusive community and build connections with other hemolytic anemia allies by following @AllyVoicesRising on Instagram.
S2 · E34
Oct 8, 2025 · 50 min
Good Sickle Cell Care
In this live episode from the NASCC meeting in Stowe, Vermont, Dr. Z and Dr. C are joined by a powerhouse panel: Dr. Payal Desai, Dr. Seethal Jacob, Dr. Pat McGann, and Dr. Andy Ellner to unpack what truly defines great sickle cell care. The group explores the importance of comprehensive, continuous, and patient-centered models, from inpatient to outpatient settings, pediatrics to adulthood. They discuss integrating technology, clinical trials, and multidisciplinary teams to improve quality of life and prevent long-term complications. It's an insightful look at how collaboration, innovation, and trust are shaping the future of sickle cell treatment. SHOW DESCRIPTION Cheat Codes is intended for patients, caregivers, providers, and the greater community of people who are impacted by Sickle Cell Disease. With each episode, Cheat Codes strives to provide listeners with critical education, the latest scientific updates, and voices from the Sickle Cell community. Join an inclusive community and build connections with other hemolytic anemia allies by following @AllyVoicesRising on Instagram. TRANSPARENCY STATEMENT Cheat Codes: A Sickle Cell Podcast is made possible by Agios Pharmaceuticals Inc. Visit Agios.com to learn more. The following Agios-supported programs are intended for informational and educational purposes only and are not intended as medical advice. Please speak with your healthcare professional before making any treatment decisions. Host and guests featured in this episode have been compensated for their time.
S2 · E33
Sep 24, 2025 · 39 min
History & Founding of NASCC
In this episode of Cheat Codes, Dr. Z and Dr. C sit down with Dr. Julie Kanter, Dr. Sophie Lanzkron, and Dr. Marsha Treadwell to spotlight the National Alliance of Sickle Cell Centers (NASCC). They explore how NASCC came to life, its mission to unite multidisciplinary teams, and its role in setting consensus guidelines for sickle cell care. From building a national registry to fostering collaboration between clinics, community organizations, and patients, the conversation captures a pivotal movement toward consistent, high-quality care nationwide. Listeners will hear how NASCC is shaping the present—and future—of sickle cell treatment. For more information on the National Alliance of Sickle Cell Centers (NASCC), please visit: https://sicklecellcenters.org/ SHOW DESCRIPTION Cheat Codes is intended for patients, caregivers, providers, and the greater community of people who are impacted by Sickle Cell Disease. Each episode, Cheat Codes strives to provide listeners with critical education, the latest scientific updates, and voices from the Sickle Cell community. Join an inclusive community and build connections with other hemolytic anemia allies by following @AllyVoicesRising on Instagram. TRANSPARENCY STATEMENT Cheat Codes: A Sickle Cell Podcast is made possible by Agios Pharmaceuticals Inc. Visit Agios.com to learn more. The following Agios-supported programs are intended for informational and educational purposes only and are not intended as medical advice. Please speak with your healthcare professional before making any treatment decisions. Host and guests featured in this episode have been compensated for their time.
S2 · E32
Sep 17, 2025 · 27 min
Building Community in Patient Advocacy - One Warrior at a Time
In this episode of Cheat Codes, Dr. Z and Dr. C are joined by renowned advocates TaLana Hughes and Cassandra Trimnell to explore what "the sickle cell community" truly means. They discuss how patients, caregivers, providers, and allies form interconnected, and often overlapping, communities that bring hope, support, and change. From building trust to celebrating wins, the conversation highlights the power of connection, the importance of access to information, and how to find your "tribe" in the sickle cell space. Whether local or global, online or in person, community remains the heartbeat of progress in sickle cell disease. SHOW DESCRIPTION Cheat Codes is intended for patients, caregivers, providers, and the greater community of people who are impacted by Sickle Cell Disease. Each episode, Cheat Codes strives to provide listeners with critical education, the latest scientific updates, and voices from the Sickle Cell community. Join an inclusive community and build connections with other hemolytic anemia allies by following @AllyVoicesRising on Instagram. TRANSPARENCY STATEMENT Cheat Codes: A Sickle Cell Podcast is made possible by Agios Pharmaceuticals Inc. Visit Agios.com to learn more. The following Agios-supported programs are intended for informational and educational purposes only and are not intended as medical advice. Please speak with your healthcare professional before making any treatment decisions. Host and guests featured in this episode have been compensated for their time.
S2 · E31
May 14, 2025 · 37 min
Sickle Cell Advocacy: Stories, Struggles, and Self-Care
On this episode of Cheat Codes, guest host Janie Davis, Director of Patient Advocacy at Agios Pharmaceuticals, is joined by sickle cell advocates Teonna Woolford, Cassandra Trimnell, and Rae Blaylark discuss the challenges and rewards of sickle cell advocacy. They delve into personal journeys, the nuances of advocacy, and the importance of self-care. The conversation highlights the power of community, the significance of setting boundaries, and the need for therapeutic support. The advocates also reflect on the impact of their work and offer advice for the next generation of sickle cell advocates. SHOW DESCRIPTION Cheat Codes is intended for patients, caregivers, providers, and the greater community of people who are impacted by Sickle Cell Disease. Each episode, Cheat Codes strives to provide listeners with critical education, the latest scientific updates, and voices from the Sickle Cell community. Join an inclusive community and build connections with other hemolytic anemia allies by following @AllyVoicesRising on Instagram. TRANSPARENCY STATEMENT Cheat Codes: A Sickle Cell Podcast is made possible by Agios Pharmaceuticals Inc. Visit Agios.com to learn more. The following Agios-supported programs are intended for informational and educational purposes only and are not intended as medical advice. Please speak with your healthcare professional before making any treatment decisions. Host and guests featured in this episode have been compensated for their time.
S2 · E30
Apr 16, 2025 · 45 min
Legends of Sickle Cell Disease: Dr. Isaac Odame's Journey
On this episode, Dr. Z and Dr. C. Callahan interview Dr. Isaac Odame, a leading figure in the field of sickle cell disease. Dr. Odame shares his life story, beginning in Ghana, his medical training in the UK, and his global contributions to sickle cell research, including involvement with the Global Sickle Cell Disease Network. The discussion covers his work in various countries, the challenges, and successes in treating sickle cell disease, and his family's influence on his career. SHOW DESCRIPTION Cheat Codes is intended for patients, caregivers, providers, and the greater community of people who are impacted by Sickle Cell Disease. Each episode, Cheat Codes strives to provide listeners with critical education, the latest scientific updates, and voices from the Sickle Cell community. TRANSPARENCY STATEMENT Cheat Codes: A Sickle Cell Podcast is made possible by Agios Pharmaceuticals Inc. Visit Agios.com to learn more. The following Agios-supported programs are intended for informational and educational purposes only and are not intended as medical advice. Please speak with your healthcare professional before making any treatment decisions. Hosts and guests featured in this episode have been compensated for their time. Join an inclusive community and build connections with other hemolytic anemia allies by following @AllyVoicesRising on Instagram.
S2 · E30
Mar 26, 2025 · 44 min
Championing Sickle Cell Care: A Talk with Dr. Wally Smith
Drs. Z and C welcome Dr. Wally Smith, a leading figure in sickle cell research from Virginia Commonwealth University, to discuss crucial issues affecting adults with sickle cell disease. They explore the neglect of adult patients, the need for dedicated centers, and the value of community health workers. Dr. Smith emphasizes the importance of holistic healthcare solutions, state-level policy initiatives, and community support to improve quality of life and outcomes for sickle cell patients. SHOW DESCRIPTION Cheat Codes is intended for patients, caregivers, providers, and the greater community of people who are impacted by Sickle Cell Disease. Each episode, Cheat Codes strives to provide listeners with critical education, the latest scientific updates, and voices from the Sickle Cell community. TRANSPARENCY STATEMENT Cheat Codes: A Sickle Cell Podcast is made possible by Agios Pharmaceuticals Inc. Visit Agios.com to learn more. The following Agios-supported programs are intended for informational and educational purposes only and are not intended as medical advice. Please speak with your healthcare professional before making any treatment decisions. Hosts and guests featured in this episode have been compensated for their time. Join an inclusive community and build connections with other hemolytic anemia allies by following @AllyVoicesRising on Instagram.
S2 · E28
Feb 26, 2025 · 45 min
Timmerman Hike: A Journey of Hope and Advocacy for Sickle Cell
On this inspiring episode of Cheat Codes, Dr. Z and Dr. C talk with an extraordinary group of individuals who embarked on a monumental climb up Mount Kilimanjaro to raise awareness and funds for sickle cell disease. Led by Dr. Alan Anderson and featuring sickle cell warrior Jimi Olaghere the group of Patrick Hines, MD, PhD, Eva Gallagher, PhD, and Audra Boscoe, PhD shares personal stories of perseverance, determination, and the powerful symbolism of their climb. They discuss the challenges they faced, both mental and physical, and the life-changing impact of their journey. With over $2 million raised, the episode concludes with a hopeful message for the future of sickle cell diagnosis and treatment in Sub-Saharan Africa. Audra Boscoe and Eva Gallagher are employees of Agios Pharmaceuticals. SHOW DESCRIPTION Cheat Codes is intended for patients, caregivers, providers, and the greater community of people who are impacted by Sickle Cell Disease. Each episode, Cheat Codes strives to provide listeners with critical education, the latest scientific updates, and voices from the Sickle Cell community. Join an inclusive community and build connections with other hemolytic anemia allies by following @AllyVoicesRising on Instagram. TRANSPARENCY STATEMENT Cheat Codes: A Sickle Cell Podcast is made possible by Agios Pharmaceuticals Inc. Visit Agios.com to learn more. The following Agios-supported programs are intended for informational and educational purposes only and are not intended as medical advice. Please speak with your healthcare professional before making any treatment decisions. Hosts and guests featured in this episode have been compensated for their time.

Showing 1–20 of 20 episodes