MERRILLVILLE – Travail With Us founder and CEO Alfreida Robins is once again leading the charge to raise awareness for Sickle Cell disease through two free signature events. Following the loss of her younger brother and cousin to complications from Sickle Cell, Robins is committed to keeping their memories alive while helping those who are battling the disease.
“I watched what my brother, cousin, and others went through as they fought Sickle Cell, and it was heartbreaking,” recalls Robins. “They experienced physical pain, while we dealt with the emotional pain from witnessing their suffering. Hosting these events will always be a way for me to turn my pain into purpose.”
The events include a Sickle Cell Awareness Walk, blood drive, and picnic at Hidden Lake Park, 6355 Broadway in Merrillville, Indiana, on Thursday, April 16th. The blood drive begins at 9:00 a.m., and the walk steps off at 10:00 a.m. Participants from the community, Travail with Us employees, clients and supporters will walk the perimeter of the park twice and then gather for a balloon release in memory of those who lost their livers due to complications from Sickle Cell disease.
There is no cost to participate. Walkers will be treated to an afternoon of food, music and fellowship, while medical professionals offer information and resources.
On Friday, April 17, 2026, the 3rd Annual Sickle Cell Gala will be held at Marquette Park Pavilion, 1 N. Grand Boulevard in Gary, Indiana. Doors open at 5:00 p.m. The formal occasion will feature, dinner, dancing, networking, guest speakers, award/scholarship presentations, and resources. For a second year in a row, Chelsea Whittington of C WHITT PR will serve as the gala emcee.
The community is invited to nominate a “Sickle Cell Warrior” to be honored at the affair by sending an email to Travailwithus@yahoo.com. Those who are selected will be recognized for their resilience as they continue to battle the many challenges that come with Sickle Cell disease.
While there is no cost to attend the gala, registration is required by calling 219-713-1077 or sending an email to travailwithus@yahoo.com.
