Advisory Board

Sick Cell's Advisory Board is composed of leaders and experts who use their skills, guidance, and knowledge to help us achieve our mission.

Barbara Harrison, MS, CGC, graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Biology from University of Maryland, College Park and received a Master’s degree in Genetic Counseling from University of Pittsburgh. She is certified by the American Board of Genetic Counselors and currently serves on its Board of Directors. She is an Assistant Professor at Howard University and teaches graduate students, medical students, and medical residents in various specialties, in the areas of genetics, genetic testing, genetic counseling and ethics. In addition to her academic duties, she provides genetic counseling services at Howard University Hospital for a variety of referral reasons, including cancer and prenatal.

Elisabeth M. Oehrlein, Ph.D., MS, is a mixed-methods researcher with expertise in patient engagement and the role of patient experience data in drug development, value/health technology assessment, and real-world research. Before founding Applied Patient Experience, LLC, Dr. Oehrlein served on the senior leadership team at the National Health Council, where she was responsible for research and education programs. She has spoken widely on the topic of patient-centered research, including invited presentations at the National Academy of Sciences and various Congressional Briefings.

Khristina Reid is the Executive Director of Virginia Sickle Cell Network. She and her husband, Shermane Reid are parents to 6 children- two of whom were diagnosed with sickle cell disease at birth. On the journey towards navigating SCD, Khristina began to advocate with the desire to enhance the lives of those affected by sickle cell disease. Khristina facilitates her advocacy work through the following:
- Leading Virginia Sickle Cell Network
- Serving as an Ambassador with Sick Cells
- Working as the Co-Chair for Children’s Medical Group’s Patient Family Advisory Council.
- And, More.

Mariah Scott is a sickle cell warrior from New Jersey diagnosed at birth. She received a Master of Science in Microbiology and a Master of Public Health in Epidemiology to develop a medical and public health background from Seton Hall University and Rutgers University. She has been involved in sickle cell research for New Jersey developing pediatric to adult care transition programs for sickle cell patients.

As a physician, I understand the importance of being personable, compassionate, and knowledgeable in delivering the best care possible. As an advocate, I understand the importance of communication and my role in bridging the gaps between both roles in improving overall health and well being. What I truly desire are experiences which will mold me into a physician that exhibits the most competent and compassionate of traits that transcends healthcare. I am desirous to help lead and support the medical community in developing effective treatment strategies that are conscientious of the ever-increasing cultural plurality of our patient populations.

My name is Terrance Hill, a 44-year-old who was born with a pre-existing condition called Sickle Cell (SS), which could have disheartened me but only magnified the word, Warrior. A warrior is defined as a brave or experienced soldier or fighter who can be clearly understood by living a life hindered by pain that prevents you from accomplishing your life goals. I advocate helping improve the quality of life for our community of Warriors since our afflictions are never the same, but the hardships are similar mentally, physically, and financially since caregivers can in no manner determine when their loved ones will endure a pain crisis.

I was diagnosed at the age of 6 month's old w/ Sickle Cell Disease in 1983. Due to not much being known about SCD the Dr. who diagnosed me told my Mom, and grandmother that I wouldn't live past 20. However, being a family of faith we trusted in the lord understanding that God has the final say. Which has gotten me to now living well w/ Sickle Cell at age 41 years old. It has been a very interesting road getting to this point.