Cayenne Wellness Center and Children's Foundation, in collaboration with the Sickle Cell Community Consortium and the Sickle Cell Disease Association of America, presents SCAR Stories: A Visual Testimony of Sickle Cell Warriors. This groundbreaking art exhibit captures the untold stories behind the scars of those living with sickle cell disease, launching with a special video montage during the 17th Annual Sickle Cell Disease Educational Summit.
The exhibit officially opens to the public from September 18–20, 2025, at the San Jose Marriott, located at 301 S. Market Street, San Jose, CA 95113. Through striking photography by Artfully Avant and bold storytelling by Dr. Patrise Holden, Scar Stories brings to light the physical and emotional scars, both visible and unseen, that sickle cell warriors carry. Each portrait honors the dual nature of scars as symbols of trauma and triumph, pain and perseverance.
As photographer Heather Avant explains, "Scar Stories is a true visualization of the aftermath of sickle cell on the human body. As warriors, we bear the scars of battle." The project represents the first art initiative of its kind to explore and reveal the visible and hidden scars of sickle cell warriors across the nation, offering the world a powerful glimpse into the strength of the sickle cell community.
The implications of this exhibit extend beyond artistic expression, serving as a movement of healing and truth-telling that could significantly impact public understanding of sickle cell disease. By transforming scars into powerful visual testimonies, the project redefines them as marks of endurance, survival, and beauty, potentially reducing stigma and fostering greater empathy within healthcare systems and broader society.
Curated under the leadership of Carolyn Rowley, PhD, Executive Director of Cayenne Wellness Center, along with Heather Avant and Dr. Patrise Holden, the project was made possible through California State Funding awarded to Cayenne Wellness Center and Children's Foundation. Summit attendees receive free entry to the SCAR Stories Exhibit, while general guests are welcome with donations appreciated. Registration is available at https://bit.ly/cwcscarstoriesexhibit.
