Johnson Haynes, Jr., M.D., Comprehensive Sickle Cell Center

  • Nurse practitioner examines a young, male patient.
  • Two physicians speak with a female pediatric patient receiving treatment.
  • Nurse practitioner examines a young, male patient.
  • Physician examines a senior, male patient.
  • Physician and resident discusses treatment plan in clinic.
  • RSA Tower in downtown Mobile, Alabama lit red to recognize Sickle Cell Awareness Month on Sunday, September 8, 2024
  • September is National Sickle Cell Awareness Month and the City of Mobile issued a proclamation recognizing the observance.  Representatives of the USA’s Johnson Haynes Jr. Comprehensive Sickle Cell Center, including Ardie Pack-Mabien, Ph.D., FNP-BC, director;Antwan Hogue, M.D., medical director; and Hamayun Imran, M.D., division chief of pediatric hematology/oncology; received the proclamation from Mayor Sandy Stimpson during the city council meeting. 


The Johnson Haynes, Jr., M.D., Comprehensive Sickle Cell Center at the University of South Alabama provides consultation for the diagnosis, management, and treatment of children and adults with sickle cell disease.

Our mission is to improve the lives of persons affected by this disease through comprehensive clinical care, basic and clinical research, and patient and professional education, proving that there is: Life After Birth with Sickle Cell!

As a result of mandatory newborn screening, penicillin prophylaxis, and pneumococcal vaccines, the life expectancy of babies born with sickle cell disease in the United States has improved to the 4th and 5th decades of life. While the survival rate has improved, one third of adolescents and young adults delay or do not successfully transition to adult care and are lost to medical follow-up for the management of their sickle cell disease.

Many issues negatively affect the transitioning process, such as poor planning, ineffective patient-physician communication, cultural barriers, lack of access to healthcare providers and lack of adequate insurance coverage. Transitioning from pediatric to adult services has proven to be a challenge in the sickle cell community.

One of the innovative ways the center serves pediatric patients is through the Pediatric to Adult Care Transition (PACT) program. Established in 2012, this program  was designed to promote and facilitate the transition of pediatric patients with sickle cell disease to adult services.

The goal of the PACT program is to establish a working relationship with adolescent patients starting at age 13 and their parent/caregiver to help pave the way for a more efficient and effective transition. The program incorporates preparation, education, and a multidisciplinary team approach to bridge the gap between pediatric and adult healthcare systems for sickle cell participants between the ages of 13-19.

Because a nurse practitioner and registered nurse work closely within both systems, this gives participants the advantage of already knowing members of the adult healthcare team, and as a result, they are more likely to progress in their care without incident.

The ideal result is to help patients better prepare for the transition with little to no complications. Ten years into the program, the center boasts an 82% successful transfer rate. Our hope is to continue to bridge the gap and make the process of transferring from pediatric to adult healthcare a smooth transition using our proven multidisciplinary approach.

 

▼   Sickle Cell Programs/Services

Adult Care

Adult outpatient care for patients with sickle cell disease is held every Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday at the USA Health Mastin Patient Care Center. This clinic is staffed by a team comprised of physicians, nurse practitioners, a registered nurse and a social worker. In-hospital treatment of adult sickle cell patients is provided at USA Health University Hospital.

Pediatric Care

Outpatient care for children and adolescents with sickle cell disease is held every Tuesday at the USA Health Strada Patient Care Center. In-hospital services for patients are provided at USA Health Children's & Women's Hospital and are attended by Drs. Hamayun Imran, Preethi Marri, and Felicia Wilson. The specialized sickle cell staff includes nurse practitioners, a registered nurse and a social worker.

Pediatric to Adult Care Transition (PACT)  

The Pediatric to Adult Care Transition (PACT) Program at USA Health Johnson Haynes Comprehensive Sickle Cell Center promotes and facilitates the transition of pediatric patients with sickle cell disease to adult services. The goal of the PACT program is to establish a working relationship with the adolescent patient starting at age 13 and the parent/caregiver to help pave the way for a more efficient and effective transition.  
 
Patients between the ages of 13 and 19 years, male and female, with sickle cell disease (SS, SC, Sβ+ - thalassemia and Sβ° - thalassemia) can be supported in this program. The transfer to adult services occurs at age 19. 
 
Transitioning for an individual with a chronic illness is a dynamic process that requires a multidisciplinary approach. The PACT program incorporates preparation, education and a multi-disciplinary team approach to streamline the patient’s transition seamlessly. Some of the most significant barriers to transitioning from pediatric to adult care include: identifying a primary care physician; resistance from the adolescent or family; lack of time to address transition issues; and lack of reimbursement for providers. 
 
The transition process affects both the parent and child, and the PACT program was established to support both through the adolescent’s continued care. Additional support from sickle cell centers and community agencies, such as the Sickle Cell Disease Association of America, vocational rehabilitation and work readiness programs also helps meet medical, educational, psychosocial and vocational needs during transition. 

Clinical Studies

The GBT HOPE (Hemoglobin Oxygen Affinity Modulation to Inhibit HbS PolymErization) study is a global clinical research study that will evaluate whether GBT440 will be safe and effective in reducing anemia, pain crises, fatigue and other day-to-day symptoms in adults and adolescents with sickle cell disease. It will also study the effects of different doses of GBT440 to determine the best dose to give to adolescents and adults with sickle cell disease. View the information sheet [PDF].

Referrals

To refer a patient to the Johnson Haynes, Jr., M.D., Comprehensive Sickle Cell Center, or to arrange a consultation, call us at 1-800-388-8721. We are eager to share information about the latest sickle cell treatment and research. We welcome physician consults and referrals.

▼   What is Sickle Cell Disease?

Sickle Cell Disease is an inherited disorder which causes red blood cells to lose their ability to carry oxygen. While the normal red blood cell is shaped like a smooth and flexible disc, the sickle red blood cell becomes sickle shaped after oxygen is released from its hemoglobin. This sickle shaped red blood cell is hard and sticky and forms blockages in small blood vessels. These blockages lead to repeated acute and chronic tissue damage, chronic anemia and severe painful episodes.

Episodic pain events, infection and lung complications are the more common problems caused by sickle cell disease. Complications may include stroke, kidney failure, damage to joints, and other debilitating or life threatening conditions.

▼   About Johnson Haynes, Jr., M.D. 

Johnson Haynes, Jr., M.D.Johnson Haynes, Jr., M.D., left such a rich legacy at the University of South Alabama and the Mobile area that it is only fitting the University’s Comprehensive Sickle Cell Center to which he devoted much of his career bears his name.

Since August 2001, Dr. Haynes led the USA Comprehensive Sickle Cell Center and cared for most of the adults with sickle cell disease in the southern half of Alabama. In September 2022, the USA Board of Trustees authorized the naming of the center as the Johnson Haynes Jr., M.D., Comprehensive Sickle Cell Center in recognition of his longstanding commitment to the treatment, research, and education of sickle cell disease.

Dr. Haynes, a longtime, well-respected member of the University of South Alabama community, passed away on Friday, Dec. 2, 2022 at his home. 

He was only the third leader of the center in its history. In 1980, it was founded at the USA Medical Center under the leadership of Vipul Mankad, M.D., and in partnership with the Sickle Cell Disease Association of America, Mobile Chapter. In addition to Mankad and Haynes, Steve Goodman, Ph.D., also served as director.

Eight years after its inception, the USA Comprehensive Sickle Cell Center was awarded one of only 10 prestigious, federally funded grants from the National Institutes of Health to sustain the program for the next 15 years. Under his leadership, the center went on to fund the Cecil L. Parker Sickle Cell Lectureship Endowment, establish the Pediatric to Adult Care Transition Program, enroll patients into pharmaceutical-sponsored clinical trials and issue one patent.

In high school, Dr. Haynes excelled in sports and academics, and graduated from Opelika High School as president of the student body in 1971. That fall, he enrolled as a pre-med student at Tuskegee Institute. In 1975, he started medical school at the University of South Alabama. 

A 1980 graduate of the Frederick P. Whiddon College of Medicine, Dr. Haynes completed a residency in internal medicine and a fellowship in pulmonary medicine with USA Health. He joined the faculty in 1984 as the first African American clinical and basic sciences faculty member.

He served as a professor of internal medicine at the Whiddon College of Medicine, assistant dean of the Office of Diversity and Inclusion, director of the USA Comprehensive Sickle Cell Center, and a pulmonologist with USA Health.

During his decades of service at USA, Dr. Haynes became distinguished for his expertise in sickle cell anemia. His adult sickle cell patients came from all over southern Alabama and the Gulf Coast region, and he was dedicated to them and committed to research that would find a cure for the malady that overwhelmingly afflicts people of color.

Throughout his career, Dr. Haynes was a champion for diversity and representation in healthcare and medical education. In 2011, he established the USA Office of Diversity and Cultural Competence, which was renamed the Office of Diversity and Inclusion in 2014.

In addition to coordinating the DREAM and SouthMed Prep Scholars programs, Dr. Haynes also served as the faculty sponsor for the Whiddon College of Medicine's newly established chapter of Black Men in White Coats, which aims to increase the number of Black men in the field of medicine.

He was also a devoted mentor to countless medical students and residents. He tirelessly recruited promising students from historically black colleges to attend medical school at South, and he helped to create a summer program to sharpen the skills they would need for entry.

Dr. Haynes will be remembered as an excellent clinician and scientist who was passionate about his patients, and a trailblazer who paved the way for young African Americans to follow in his footsteps and become physicians. His legacy lives on in the countless students, faculty, staff, and patients he influenced throughout his tenure.

He served on various local, regional, and national committees dedicated to the treatment of sickle cell disease and has served as principal investigator or collaborator on more than three dozen research grants. He also has authored or co-authored countless publications, book chapters, newsletters, abstracts and reports.

His life’s work has been recognized through numerous awards, including the National Research Service Award, America’s Top Doctor, the Edith Mitchell Health Initiative Academy of Achievers Perseverance Award, and a Distinguished Alumni Award from the USA National Alumni Association and Medical Alumni Association.

Donations to the Johnson Haynes Jr., M.D. Comprehensive Sickle Cell Center can be made online. All contributions are tax deductible.

▼   TRISICKLE for Sickle Cell Fundraiser

TRISICKLE for Sickle Cell

Pledge support for sickle cell treatment and awareness through the TRISICKLE for Sickle Cell Campaign! Created by the Sickle Cell Center Development Council, a group of community leaders, healthcare providers, clients and family caregivers, this fundraising effort supports programs and services offered by the Pediatric to Adult Care Transition (PACT) program and the Johnson Haynes, Jr., M.D. Comprehensive Sickle Cell Center.

The PACT program was created to help adolescents and young adults with sickle cell transition from pediatric care to adult care. The program’s goal is to establish a working relationship with the adolescent patient and his or her parent/caregiver to develop a more efficient and effective progression to adult care.

Community support is needed for this program and the center to thrive, and you can make a difference in the lives of sickle cell patients in the Gulf Coast area. Consider participating especially during National Sickle Cell Awareness Month in September or on World Sickle Cell Awareness Day, June 19, but you can join this worthy cause any time.

How to Pledge Your Support to TRISICKLE for Sickle Cell

  • See how far you can ride a tricycle, and video yourself doing it.
  • Don’t forget to share your video on social media with the tag #TriSickleForSickleCell and invite a friend to try!
  • Pledge $1 per foot and help raise awareness and funds for sickle cell disease.
  • Make your donation here online. All contributions are tax deductible.

For additional information the TRISICKLE for Sickle Cell Campaign and the PACT program, call the J. Haynes, Jr. MD Comprehensive Sickle Cell Center at 251-470-5893.

▼   Dr. Cecil L. Parker, Jr. Sickle Cell Disease Distinguished Endowed Lectureship

Dr. Cecil L. Parker, Jr. Sickle Cell Disease Distinguished Endowed Lectureship

From left: Dr. Hamayun Imran; Dr. Felicia Wilson; Dr. Johnson Haynes, Jr.; Dr. Hafeez Siddiqui; Dr. Cecil L. Parker, Jr.; Karen Marlowe, PharmD; Marilyn Chancellor, Coordinator; Ardie Pack-Mabien, CRNP, and Dr. Jane S. Hankins

The Dr. Cecil L. Parker, Jr. Sickle Cell Disease Distinguished Endowed Lectureship was established in 2008 to support sickle cell education for patients, physicians and allied health professionals in Mobile and surrounding counties, in perpetuity. The University of South Alabama chose to name this endowment to honor Dr. Parker for his service to USA and for his extensive and lengthy medical career of caring for adult patients affected with sickle cell disease. In 1986, Dr. Parker started his private practice in Mobile in Internal Medicine. Shortly thereafter, he was named the Director of the USA Adult Sickle Cell Center and served in this position for nine years. Even after resigning his post as Director, Dr. Parker continues to support the Johnson Haynes, Jr., M.D., Comprehensive Sickle Cell Center.

The mission of the Comprehensive Sickle Cell Center is to improve the lives of persons affected by sickle cell disease through state-of-the-art clinical care, clinical research and education. The establishment of the endowment is a critical component in realizing the mission of the Center. As a result, we have been able to assure the necessary educational outreach is and will always be in place to serve our patients and healthcare professionals. Ultimately, a well-informed healthcare community translates to optimum patient care and outcomes. Over the past several years, the Dr. Cecil L. Parker, Jr. Sickle Cell Disease Distinguished Endowed Lectureship, which is a component of the annual University of South Alabama Sickle Cell Regional Conference, has provided a platform to educate and equip over 1,200 healthcare providers with the knowledge to effectively assess, manage and assist patients who are affected by sickle cell disease.

None of this would be possible without the grass roots community efforts of individual and corporate donors. With the assistance of our supporters, we have raised over $130,000 to support our patients and their families as they struggle to cope with sickle cell disease. There are not enough words to thank those that have supported the endowment.

As we look toward the future, it is imperative to offer increased support to our patients and to assure the healthcare community is well informed about the most current clinical practices available in the care of patients with sickle cell disease. Please consider how you might reinforce our efforts to improve the lives of those persons affected by sickle cell disease. Join the USA faculty, staff, alumni, and friends to honor Dr. Parker by making a gift today to the Dr. Cecil L. Parker, Jr. Sickle Cell Disease Distinguished Endowed Lectureship [PDF].

Make your donation online. All contributions are tax deductible.

▼   Watson Henderson Higher Education Achievement Award

The J.Haynes, Jr., M.D., Comprehensive Sickle Cell Center helps support adolescents with sickle cell disease through two important transitions. The first is assisting their transition from pediatric to adult care. The second is offering financial assistance for higher education through the Watson  Henderson Higher Education Achievement Award.

Presented annually, the award is sponsored by Sylvester Mabien and Ardie Pack-Mabien, Ph.D., in honor of Dr. Pack-Mabien’s grandparents Mattie Watson and Henry Henderson. Each recipient  receives $500.

The J. Haynes, Jr. MD Comprehensive Sickle Cell Center hosts an award ceremony, during which recipients are recognized and families and guests are invited to attend. Center faculty and staff, department of pediatrics, hematology/oncology, along with the director of the Sickle Cell Disease Association of America, Mobile Chapter, attends to congratulate recipients on yet another successful transition in life to pursuing their higher education.

To qualify for the Watson Henderson Higher Education Achievement Award, applicants must meet the following criteria at least one year prior to their transfer to adult care:

  1. Be a graduating high school senior with sickle cell disease who has actively participated in the Pediatric to Adult Care Transition Program.
  2. Attend at least one educational session on sickle cell disease and the transition process with the transition nurse educator and/or coordinator at the Learning Resource and Development Center.
  3. Attend at least two adult care open house events, meeting the following criteria:
    1. Independent of a parent on at least one occasion.
    2. Accompanied by a family caregiver on at least one occasion.
    3. Money Matter Sessions offered at the Learning Resource and Development Center.
    4. Human Growth and Development Session at the Learning Resource and Development Center.
  4. Participate in at least two self-care and self-management activities at the Learning Resource and Development Center.
  5. Complete the Hope and Destiny Jr. Transition Workbook and obtain documentation confirming attendance of programs sponsored by the PACT program.
  6. Provide written documentation of acceptance and enrollment in a career development program, vocational/trade school, community college or a four-year university.
  7. Present themselves in a professional manner and attend the ceremony in order to receive the award.
  8. Consent to photography and/or video to be used on social media by the University of South Alabama, USA Health and the J. Haynes Jr. MD Comprehensive Sickle Cell Center.
  9. Complete and submit the application. Applicants may also attend programs sponsored by the Sickle Cell Disease Association of America, Mobile Chapter in collaboration with the J. Haynes Jr. MD Comprehensive  Sickle Cell Center-Transition Nurse Educator/Coordinator.

Young adults who are freshmen or sophomores in high school can begin working on meeting the eligibility requirements for this award.  However, juniors in high school and will be graduating in the upcoming May, but have not yet met the criteria, there is still time.

This is a great opportunity to earn money to support your higher education. For application assistance or if you have any other questions, contact T’Shemika Perryman, RN, at (251) 470-5875 to schedule an in-person appointment at the Learning Resource and Development Center, which is located in the Moorer Clinical Science Building at 2451 University Hospital Drive, Suite 1530, Mobile, AL 36617.  

Make a donation online. All contributions are tax deductible.

For additional information about, the Watson Henderson Higher Achievement Award call the J. Haynes, Jr. MD Comprehensive Sickle Cell Center at 251-470-5893.

▼   Sickle Cell Disease Practical Issues Regional Conference

This annual conference offers the latest on the most innovative treatment options in the management of sickle cell disease, its complications, and psychosocial issues. The conference features nationally- and locally-recognized experts in medicine, nursing, and allied health who are devoted to educating healthcare professionals with current knowledge and skills to deliver quality evidence-based care and improved the lives of individuals affected by sickle cell disease. Along with educating healthcare professionals, the conference offers participants continuing education credits, as well as an opportunity for participants to freely network and interact with the event organizers and speakers. For additional information regarding future conferences or to be added to the mailing list, contact our office at (251) 470-5893.

▼   Open and Current Clinical Research/Trials

A Phase II, multicenter, randomized, open-label two-arm study comparing the effect of crizanlizumab + standard of care to standard of care alone on renal function in sickle cell disease patients ¡Ý 16 years with chronic kidney disease due to sickle cell nephropathy (STEADFAST). Learn more. 
  
A comparative effectiveness study of peer mentoring versus structured transition education-based intervention (STE) for the management of care transitions in emerging adults with sickle cell disease (SCD); The Sickle Cell Trevor Thompson Transition Project (ST3P-UP Trial). Learn more. 
 
Role of Angiotensin Converting Enzyme Inhibitors/Angiotension Receptor Blockers for Protein-Wasting Nephropathy in Sickle Cell Disease. 
 
ALSTATE (Alabama Lifespan Sickle Cell Tracking Access Towards Equality) Network. Learn more. 
 
The GBT HOPE (Hemoglobin Oxygen Affinity Modulation to Inhibit HbS PolymErization) study. Learn more [PDF].

▼   Published Research 

Lawrence, RH, Griffin, A, Cornette, J, Robinson, M, McManus, P, White, P, Courtland, C, Noonan, L, Mabus, S, Starnes, L, Coleman, A, Nu’Man, J, Saah, E, Smith, W, Sisler, I, Seavers, R, Osunkwo, I, Desai, P. Study Investigator (Pack-Mabien, A, Wilson, F, contributor). Leveraging quality improvement to optimize engagement approaches that strengthen multi-stakeholder partnerships in sickle cell disease transition. Academy For Sickle Cell and Thalassaemia Annual Conference. October 25-28, 2023. London, UK.

Lawrence, RH, Desai, P, Griffin, A, Cornette, J, Coleman, A, Nu’Man, J, Williams, JG, Eckman, JR, Osunkwo, I. Study Investigator (Pack-Mabien, A, Wilson, F, contributor). ST3PPING up community: Developing the triad model together on the path to progress in enhancing transition of care for emerging adults with sickle cell disease. 51st National Sickle Cell Disease Association of America Convention. October 11-14, 2023. Arlington, VA.

Pack-Mabien, A, Judges, C, Dosummu, G, King, J, Hogue, A, Bessette, S, Haynes, J. Reno-protective effects of angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers on protein wasting nephropathy in sickle cell disease. 51st National Sickle Cell Disease Convention. October 11-14, 2023. Arlington Va. Poster no. 5.

Abdel Razeq, N, Reem A, Ahmad A, Pack-Mabien, A, Eman Abu S, Inshirah AQ, Khadeejeh YA. Nurse’ attitudes concerning analgesia administration for pediatric patients with sickle cell disease in Jordan: A cross-sectional study. Pain Management Nursing. 2023 Aug;1-8. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37648575/ 

Osunkwo, I, Lawrence, R, Robinson, M, Patterson, C, Symanowski, J, Minniti, C, Bryant, P, Williams, J, Eckman, J, & Desai, P. Study Investigator (Pack-Mabien, A, Wilson, F, contributor). Sickle Cell Trevor Thompson Transition Project (ST3P-UP) protocol for managing care transitions: Methods and rationale. Contemporary Clinical Trials. 2023 Mar 126:1-8. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36669729/ 

Pack-Mabien, A., Bakitas, M., Haynes, J., Landier, W., Ladores, S., & Dheeraj, R. (Mar/Apr 2022). Pediatric to Adult Care Transition Program for Sickle Cell Disease Evaluation. Pediatric Nursing, 49(2), 68-102.    
 
Pack-Mabien, A., Brown, B., Herbert, D., & Haynes, J. (2015). Secondary iron overload in adults with sickle cell disease following chronic, intermittent red blood cell transfusions. Journal of the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners,27(10), 591-596. Doi:10.1002/2327-6924.12221.  
 
Pack-Mabien, A. & Imran, H. (2013) Benefits of delayed fetal hemoglobin (HbF) switching in sickle cell disease (SCD): A case report and review of literature.  Journal of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, 00(00), 1-3. Doi:10.1097/MPH.0B013E3182880DC8.  
 
Fitzgerald, M., Fagan, K., Herbert, D.E., Al-Ali, M., Mugal, M., & Haynes, J. (June 2012) Misclassification of pulmonary hypertension in adults with sickle hemoglobinopathies using Doppler echocardiography. Southern Medical Journal,105(6):300-5. Doi: 10.1097/SMJ.0b013e318256b55b. 
 
Ataga, K.I., Reid, M., Ballas, S.K., Yasin, Z., Bigelow, C., James, L.S., Smith, W.R., Galacteros, F., Kutlar, A., Hull, J.H., Stocker, J.W., & ICA-17043-10 Study Investigators. (April 2011) Improvements in haemolysis and indicators of erythrocyte survival do not correlate with acute vaso-occlusive crises in patients with sickle cell disease: a phase III randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind study of the Gardos channel blocker senicapoc (ICA-17043). British Journal of Haematology;153(1):92-104. Doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2141.2010.08520.x. 
 
Pack-Mabien, A. & Haynes, J. (May 2009). A primary care provider's guide to preventive and acute care management of adults and children with sickle cell disease. Journal of the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners,21(5):250-7. Doi: 10.1111/j.1745-7599.2009.00401. 
 
Haynes, J., Obiako B., Hester, R.B., Baliga, B.S., & Stevens, T. (January 2008) Hydroxyurea attenuates activated neutrophil-mediated sickle erythrocyte membrane phosphatidylserine exposure and adhesion to pulmonary vascular endothelium. American Journal of Physiology - Heart and Circulatory Physiology;294(1):H379-85. Doi: 10.1152/ajpheart.01068.2007.  
 
Melton, C.W. & Haynes, J. (Sept 2006) Sickle acute lung injury: role of prevention and early aggressive intervention strategies on outcome. Clinics in Chest Medicine, 27(3):487-502, vii. Doi: 10.1016/j.ccm.2006.04.001. 
 
Kuvibidila, S., Baliga, B.S., Gardner, R., Yu, L., Warrier, R., Velez, M., Ode, D., & Haynes J. (June 2005) Differential effects of hydroxyurea and zileuton on interleukin-13 secretion by activated murine spleen cells: implication on the expression of vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 and vasoocclusion in sickle cell anemia. Cytokine;30(5):213-8. Doi: 10.1016/j.cyto.2005.01.010.  
 
Labbé, E., Herbert, D., & Haynes J. (Winter 2005) Physicians' attitude and practices in sickle cell disease pain management. Journal of Palliative Care;21(4):246-51. 
 
Haynes, J., Baliga, B.S., Obiako, B., Ofori-Acquah, S, & Pace, B. (May 2004) Zileuton induces hemoglobin F synthesis in erythroid progenitors: role of the L-arginine-nitric oxide signaling pathway. Blood;103(10):3945-50. Doi: 10.1182/blood-2003-08-2969.

Pace, B., Shartava, A., Pack-Mabien, A., Mulekar, M., Ardia, & Goodman, S. (2003). Effects of N-Acetylcysteine on Dense Cell Formation in Sickle Cell Disease.  American Journal of Hematology, (73), 26-32. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12701116/  
 
Manci, E.A., Culberson, D.E., Yang, Y.M., Gardner, T.M., Powell, R., Haynes, J., Shah, A.K., & Mankad, V.N.; Investigators of the Cooperative Study of Sickle Cell Disease. (October 2003) Causes of death in sickle cell disease: an autopsy study. British Journal of Haematology;123(2):359-65. Doi: 10.1046/j.1365-2141.2003.04594.x. 
 
Wu, S., Haynes, J., Taylor, J.T., Obiako, B.O., Stubbs, J.R., Li, M., & Stevens, T. (August 2003) Cav3.1 (alpha1G) T-type Ca2+ channels mediate vaso-occlusion of sickled erythrocytes in lung microcirculation. 
Circulation Research;93(4):346-53. Doi: 10.1161/01.RES.0000087148.75363.8F. 
 
Haynes, J. & Obiako, B. (January 2002) Activated polymorphonuclear cells increase sickle red blood cell retention in lung: role of phospholipids. American Journal of Physiology – Heart and Circulatory Physiology;282(1):H122-30. Doi: 10.1152/ajpheart.2002.282.1.H122. 

Pack-Mabien, A., Labbe, E., Herbert, D., & Haynes, J. (2001).  Nurses’ attitudes and practices in sickle cell pain management.  Applied Nursing Research, 14(4), 187-192. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11699021/  

▼   Sickle Cell Organizations

Multiple resources are available to provide support for persons with sickle cell disease. The links below lead to information about testing, providers, patient testimonials, research, insurance and Medicaid, materials for teachers and employers, and so much more.

▼   Contact Us

Ardie Pack Mabien, Ph.D., FNP-BC
Director
Nurse Practitioner Adult and Pediatric Sickle Cell Care Provider
(251) 470-5893
amabien@health.southalabama.edu 

Antwan Hogue, M.D.
Medical Director
Hospitalist, Internal Medicine
Adult Sickle Cell Care Provider and Collaborating Physician
Phone: (251) 470-5893
Fax: (251) 470-5895
ajhogue@health.southalabama.edu

Hamayun Imran, M.D., MSc.
Professor of Pediatrics
Chief, Pediatric Hematology/Oncology 
Phone: (251) 405-5115
Fax: (251) 405-5120
imran@health.southalabama.edu 

Jessica L. King, MSN, FNP-BC
Nurse Practitioner Adult Sickle Cell Care Provider
Phone: (251) 445-9159
Fax: (251) 470-5895
jlking@health.southalabama.edu 

Preethi Marri, M.D.
Assistant Professor, Pediatric Hematology/Oncology 
Phone: (251) 405-5115
Fax: (251) 405-5120
pmarri@health.southalabama.edu

T'Shemika Perryman, R.N.
Adult Clinic Nurse and Transition Coordinator
Phone: (251) 470-5893
Fax: (251) 470-5895
tperryman@health.southalabama.edu 

Tracey Roberts
Department Secretary - Administration Office
Phone: (251) 470-5893
Fax: (251) 470-5895
traceyroberts@health.southalabama.edu

Felicia Wilson, M.D.
Professor of Pediatrics, Pediatric Hematology/Oncology 
Phone: (251) 405-5115
Fax: (251) 405-5120
fwilson@health.southalabama.edu 

Jennifer G. Williams, CRNP
Nurse Practitioner
Pediatrics, Hematology/Oncology
Phone: (251) 405-5115
Fax: (251) 405-5120
jgwilliams@health.southalabama.edu