SCDAA National Poster Child

GABRIEL GEORGE has been selected as the 2007-2009 SCDAA National Poster Child.  He was diagnosed with sickle cell disease when he was 3 weeks old.  Since his diagnosis, his parents, Charles and Cheryl George have been actively involved in the Marc Thomas Sickle Cell Foundation in Austin, TX. Gabriel attends Applegate Academy and enjoys spending time with his brother Nathaniel, reading, riding his bike, hot wheel cars, inventing things and taking pictures with his digital camera.  He has been playing the violin since he was 5 years old and he is actively involved in a youth group at his church.  He has helped the group (The Adventurers) raise $30,000 to go to Kisii, Kenya to help an orphanage there getting running water and electricity.  He is very proud of how God is using him to bless those less fortunate. 

Since April 2001, Gabriel has also been a spokesperson for the Blood and Tissue Center of Central Texas (BTC) and has appeared for speaking engagements numerous times on behalf of the BTC and the Marc Thomas Sickle Cell Foundation. Gabriel understands that he is not just surviving with Sickle Cell Disease “HE IS THRIVING WITH SICKLE CELL DISEASE!”

History and Purpose

The SCDAA National Poster Child tradition started in 1976 with 8 year old Bridgette Earby of Oakland, California. The National Poster Child is selected from nominations submitted to the National office by SCDAA Member Organizations. In making the selection, a panel of impartial judges reviews photos, biographical sketches and a two-minute video of each contestant.

The role of the National Poster Child is to serve as a Goodwill Ambassador by:

• Making public appearances on behalf of the Association;
• Acting as an emissary to various public officials including the President of the United States;
• Being a positive example and role model to others with sickle cell disease;
• Educate the public and assist in securing public and private sector support for the SCDAA mission.

Among the benefits for the National Poster Child are an U.S. Savings Bond, an all expenses paid trip to the SCDAA National Convention; exposure through public appearances, public service announcements, news releases, brochures and posters and other promotion related materials.