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 event will also be accessible online, catering to a diverse audience including healthcare professionals, educators, social workers, students, and members of the Hispanic and Latino community affected by sickle cell disease.
The summit arrives at a significant time, coinciding with National Sickle Cell Awareness Month and the start of Hispanic Heritage Month on September 15. This convergence highlights the intersection of culture, health, and identity, providing a platform to address the specific experiences of Hispanic and Latino individuals living with sickle cell disease. The programming will explore the relationship between country of origin, genetic background, and community-centered education, while offering practical tools for self-advocacy and navigating the complexities of the disease and its comorbidities.
A key feature of the summit is the inclusion of a warrior-led roundtable, where individuals living with sickle cell disease will share their personal perspectives and experiences directly with attendees. Breakout sessions will cover critical topics such as the transition from pediatric to adult care, men's health, women's health, and the experiences of international warriors. The agenda also includes sessions for providers and caregivers, both domestic and international.
The summit is designed not only to educate but also to strengthen community ties. Vendor and exhibitor tables will be available for community-based organizations, businesses, healthcare organizations, authors, artists, and educational institutions to share resources and connect with participants. This fosters an environment of collaboration and support, essential for advancing health equity.
Registration is now open for warriors, families, caregivers, and advocates. Those interested can register at https://cayennewellness.org/espanol/hispanic-heritage-virtual-seminar-2026. Vendor and exhibitor opportunities can be reserved through https://tinyurl.com/HHVENDOR2026.
The summit is supported by prominent sponsors, including Beam Therapeutics, Inc. as a Gold sponsor, and Chiesi USA, Inc. and Global Rare Diseases as Silver sponsors. Their support underscores the importance of this initiative in raising awareness and improving care for sickle cell disease within Hispanic and Latino communities.
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 with sickle cell disease in California. Through education, advocacy, and comprehensive care, the organization continues to be a trusted leader in advancing support and resources. This summit represents a crucial step toward ensuring that culturally responsive information and care are accessible to all affected by sickle cell disease.
