Four Years of Advocacy, Perseverance, and a Historic Victory

On March 27, 2026, Florida made history when HB 353/SB 844 – Sickle Cell Disease Care Management and Treatment Continuing Education was signed into law. Effective July 1, 2026, this landmark legislation requires sickle cell pain treatment education to be included in an existing continuing education course for certain healthcare practitioners, marking an important step toward more knowledgeable, compassionate, and equitable healthcare.

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For four years, Advancing Sickle Cell Advocacy Project, Inc. (ASAP) worked closely with State Representative Felicia Robinson to advocate for this historic legislation. Through perseverance, legislative engagement, and the powerful testimonies of sickle cell warriors, advocates and caregivers, ASAP played an instrumental role in advancing this effort to improve healthcare education and patient care across Florida.

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A Young Advocate Making a Difference

On February 2, 2026, 12-year-old Shamar Harper, an ASAP Junior Advocate, courageously testified before the Florida Senate Health Policy Committee in support. By sharing his personal experiences living with sickle cell disease, Shamar helped lawmakers better understand the challenges patients face when seeking medical care. His testimony demonstrated that advocacy has no age limit and that even the youngest voices can help create meaningful change.

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A Victory Made Possible Through Advocacy

ASAP extends heartfelt gratitude to State Representative Felicia Robinson, who worked alongside our organization throughout this four-year journey and sponsored HB 353 in the Florida House, and Senator Shevrin Jones, who sponsored and carried SB 844 through the Florida Senate.

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We also recognize the warriors, caregivers, healthcare professionals, community partners, and advocates whose dedication helped make this historic achievement possible.

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We honor our fallen warriors, whose stories and struggles continue to inspire our mission. Their legacy is forever woven into this victory.

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The Work Continues

While this legislation represents historic progress, ASAP remains committed to ensuring that education leads to meaningful improvements in patient care, greater accountability, and better healthcare experiences for individuals living with SCD.

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This law is more than legislation. It is hope in action, a victory for our warriors, and a promise to future generations.

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Today, we celebrate progress. Tomorrow, we continue the mission.