Educate. Connect. Empower. THRIVE.
A day to learn, heal, connect, and grow.
THRIVE is HEM Foundation's signature whole-person wellness experience for individuals and families affected by sickle cell disease, healthcare professionals, and community members who believe health is about more than treating disease.
Through education, movement, practical wellness tools, and meaningful connection, THRIVE helps participants better understand the many factors that influence health while leaving with skills they can use long after the event ends.
The Story Behind THRIVE
THRIVE was born from both personal experience and years of caring for individuals living with sickle cell disease.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, while working as a hematology nurse practitioner and raising three young children, I experienced firsthand how chronic stress can affect every aspect of our health. That journey led me to explore the relationships among stress, the nervous system, mental health, and physical well-being.
At the same time, I couldn't ignore what I had witnessed in my patients for years. Chronic pain, unpredictable hospitalizations, and medical trauma affect far more than the body alone.
THRIVE grew from one simple belief: Healing is most powerful when we care for the whole person.
What is THRIVE?
More than a conference.
THRIVE combines evidence-based education with practical wellness experiences that help participants better understand the many factors that influence health.
Whether you're living with sickle cell disease, supporting someone you love, caring for patients, or simply interested in improving your own well-being, THRIVE creates opportunities to learn, connect, and grow together.
Creating Measurable Impact
THRIVE is designed to create lasting change, not just an inspiring day.
Participants consistently report leaving with greater confidence, practical tools, stronger community connections, and an improved understanding of how mental, emotional, and physical health work together.
THRIVE 2025:
92% left with tools they could apply immediately.
61% improved mental health knowledge.
50% reduction in self-reported stress.
Transform. Empower. Thrive.