A Landmark Moment in Sickle Cell Treatment: Kendric Cromer’s Journey to Recovery

Published on 2025-01-16 In a groundbreaking milestone for sickle cell disease (SCD), 12-year-old Kendric Cromer became the first patient to undergo gene therapy since its approval. After spending 44 days at Children’s National Hospital, Kendric left with a renewed sense of hope, marking a new chapter in the fight against SCD. “I thought I would have sickle cell for the rest of my life,” Kendric said, reflecting on the disease that had robbed him of his childhood. Simple joys like playing basketball or riding a bike were out of reach, replaced by searing pain and frequent hospital stays. Kendric’s departure from the hospital was met with a heartfelt celebration. Hospital staff lined the hallways, cheering and waving noisemakers as he was wheeled out, symbolizing not just the end of his hospitalization but the beginning of a brighter future for those with SCD. While his family feels fortunate to witness this life-changing treatment, their experiences highlight the challenges others may face in accessing it. The road to widespread availability and equity in treatment remains long, but Kendric’s story stands as a beacon of hope for patients and families impacted by SCD.