Congratulations to Co-founders, Ashley and Marqus Valentine, the 2019 Red Cross Blood Services Heroes

“Marqus and Ashley Valentine of Lisle are the Blood Services Heroes. Marqus was diagnosed with sickle cell anemia when he was just six months old. Although Marqus was given a short-life expectancy by doctors, he beat the odds and credits his family’s support. Two years ago, Marqus, now 35, and his younger sister Ashley, founded the non-profit organization Sick Cells to promote awareness of and advocacy for the sickle cell community. Ashley, who holds a master’s degree in research methods advocates to government officials locally and in Washington, D.C. for improved health care coverage and treatment for sickle cell patients across the country.”