HOUSTON- After two years of hosting their annual Sickle Cell 10K, 5K and 1K ace on a virtual platform, the Houston-based “As One Foundation” is happy to announce that the 2022 race will be in person again.
The event will take place Sunday, February 27, 2022, at Stude Park in The Heights located at 1031 Stude St. Houston, TX 77021. The race will kick off at 8 a.m.
“Due to the COVID-19 pandemic we were forced to host the race virtually for the past few years, and although we are grateful for those who continued to support us during those times, we are beyond excited that the race is back in person this year,” said As One Foundation Executive Director Dr. Tomia Austin.
The Darling Dash is held in honor of the As One Foundation Founder and former Houston Texan player Devard Darling’s identical twin brother, Devaughn, who died from complications of Sickle Cell Trait. The annual race helps to bring awareness to athlete deaths that plague the sickle cell community.
Sickle Cell Trait is classified as the leading non-injury killer of collegiate athletes and affects 2.5 to 4 million people in the U.S.
“Playing in the NFL was a dream for me and my brother,” said Darling. “I never thought that we wouldn’t be able to carry out our dream together. Since his death, I’ve made it my life’s mission to shine a light on Sickle Cell Trait related deaths among high school and college athletes.”
Proceeds from the race help to provide training material and testing kits for the Operation Hydration training program & supplies for outreach efforts for over 700 coaches and teachers. Funds from the race also afford monthly blood drives in partnership with Red Cross and the Gulf Coast Regional Blood Bank for Sickle Cell patients who need lifesaving blood transfusions once or twice a month.
“Sickle Cell Trait (SCT) can kill. It takes the lives of young athletes every year. A simple blood test along with supplemental SCT education for coaches & student-athletes can prevent these deaths. For each $10 donation, we can provide 1 student with a free Sickle Cell Trait screening and supplemental education,” said Austin.
Click here for more information or to register for the race.
Search our archive of past issues Receive our Latest Updates
October 16, 2023, HOUSTON, TX – Congressional Candidate Amanda Edwards has raised over $1 million in less than 4 months, a substantial sum that helps bolster the frontrunner status of the former At-Large Houston City Council Member in her bid for U.S. Congress. Edwards raised over $433,000 in Q3 of 2023. This strong Q3 report expands on a successful Q2 where Edwards announced just 11 days after declaring her candidacy that she had raised over $600,000. With over $829,000 in cash-on-hand at the end of the September 30th financial reporting period, Edwards proves again that she is the clear frontrunner in the race. “I am beyond grateful for the strong outpouring of support that will help me to win this race and serve the incredible people of the 18th Congressional District,” said Edwards. “We are at a critical juncture in our nation’s trajectory, and we need to send servant leaders to Congress who can deliver the results the community deserves. The strong support from our supporters will help us to cultivate an 18th Congressional District where everyone in it can thrive.” Edwards said. “Amanda understands the challenges that the hard-working folks of the 18th Congressional District face because she has never lost sight of who she is or where she comes from; she was born and raised right here in the 18th Congressional District of Houston,” said Kathryn McNiel, spokesperson for Edwards’ campaign. Edwards has been endorsed by Higher Heights PAC, Collective PAC, Krimson PAC, and the Brady PAC. She has also been supported by Beto O’Rourke, among many others. About Amanda: Amanda is a native Houstonian, attorney and former At-Large Houston City Council Member. Amanda is a graduate of Eisenhower High School in Aldine ISD. Edwards earned a B.A. from Emory University and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. Edwards practiced law at Vinson & Elkins LLP and Bracewell LLP before entering public service. Edwards is a life-long member of St. Monica Catholic Church in Acres Homes. For more information, please visit www.edwardsforhouston.com
As September 13th rolls around, we extend our warmest birthday wishes to the creative powerhouse, Tyler Perry, a man whose indomitable spirit and groundbreaking work have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. With his multifaceted talents as an actor, playwright, screenwriter, producer, and director, Tyler Perry has not only entertained but also inspired audiences worldwide, particularly within the African-American community, where his influence and role have been nothing short of powerful. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1969, Tyler Perry’s journey to stardom was a path riddled with adversity. Raised in a turbulent household, he found refuge in writing, using it as a therapeutic outlet. This period of introspection gave rise to one of his most iconic creations, Madea, a vivacious, no-nonsense grandmother who would later become a beloved figure in Perry’s works, offering a unique blend of humor and profound life lessons. Despite facing numerous challenges, including rejection and financial struggles, Perry’s determination and unwavering belief in his abilities propelled him forward. In 1992, he staged his first play, “I Know I’ve Been Changed,” which, although met with limited success, was a pivotal moment in his career. Unfazed by initial setbacks, Perry continued to hone his craft, and by 1998, he had successfully produced a string of stage plays that showcased his storytelling prowess.
Calling all teenage student-athletes! If you have dreams of playing college soccer and wish to represent an HBCU, the HBCU ID Camp is your golden opportunity. From 8 am to 5 pm on November 11-12, Houston Sports Park will transform into a hub for aspiring male and female soccer players. Coaches from HBCUs across the nation will be present to evaluate, scout, and offer valuable feedback. Moreover, they might even spot the next soccer prodigy to join their collegiate soccer programs. This camp is not just about honing your soccer skills but also a chance to connect with the HBCU soccer community. You’ll learn the ins and outs of what it takes to excel on the field and in the classroom, which is crucial for a college athlete. The HBCU ID Camp is an excellent platform to network with coaches, learn from experienced athletes, and take the first steps toward your college soccer journey. To secure your spot at this incredible event, don’t forget to register [here](insert registration link). Space is limited to 120 participants, so make sure to reserve your place before it’s too late. It’s time to turn your dreams of playing college soccer into a reality.
