The L.D. Barksdale Sickle Cell Foundation was founded by Louvenia Delores Barksdale in 1974 with a simple but powerful mission: to stand in the gap for those affected by sickle cell disease. What began as a grassroots response to unmet needs has grown into a trusted source of support for more than 20,000 individuals and families across South Carolina.

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A former English teacher and community advocate, Ms. Barksdale brought both compassion and conviction to this work. She began her teaching career at Carver High School in 1938, later earning degrees from Allen University and Columbia University. Her passion for education and public health led her to serve on numerous local and national boards — from the National Council for Sickle Cell Disease to the Spartanburg County Foster Care Review Board.

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She was also a founding voice in statewide efforts to expand newborn screening and testing for sickle cell anemia and served as the foundation’s first Executive Director. In 1982, the organization was officially named in her honor.

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For five decades, her legacy has lived on through our programs, partnerships and continued commitment to making sure those living with sickle cell are not only seen, but supported every step of the way.