Celebrating The Heart Of Devaughn 1982-2001​

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Welcome To The As One Foundation

The As One Foundation is a global leader in hemoglobinopathy education. It provides both in-person and digital educational opportunities aimed at raising awareness about sickle cell trait and disease, empowering patients to become proactive health advocates, and engaging allies beyond those directly affected by these blood disorders. Our programs target four key groups: patients, caregivers and families, community members, and healthcare providers.

100% for Sickle Cell Education and Community Programs

We’re here to support communities affected by sickle cell trait and sickle cell disease, not to serve our own interests. That’s why we commit 100% of the donations we receive to sickle cell education and community programs. Every contribution directly helps those in need, allowing us to raise awareness, offer crucial resources, and create a supportive network for individuals and families impacted by sickle cell.

OUR STORY:

Devard Darling is a retired 7-year veteran NFL wide receiver.  A native of Nassau, Bahamas, Darling is one of the first Bahamian athletes to play professional football in the United States. Darling learned how to play American football alongside his identical twin brother Devaughn Darling when their family moved to Houston, TX in 1994. He continued his athletic career at Florida State University as one of the top high school prospects out of Stephen F. Austin High School in Houston, Texas.  However, in 2001 Devaughn tragically died on the football field during spring practices Florida State. It was later revealed that his death was due to complications with Sickle Cell Trait. In 2006, Devard established the “As One Foundation” in honor of his brother devaughn and to bring awareness to Sickle cell Trait and its connection to student-athlete deaths. 

About Us

The As One Foundation is a global leader in hemoglobinopathy education, providing in-person & digital educational opportunities geared towards raising awareness of sickle cell trait & disease, empowering patients to be proactive advocates for their health, & attracting sickle cell allies beyond the affected blood disorder population. We serve 4 distinct populations with our programming: 1. Patients; 2. Caregivers/Families; 3. Community members & 4. Health care providers.

Our Work

We serve by the philosophy that sickle cell is experienced by not just the patient, so our service delivery aims to be relevant to everyone, while also empowering those that live with sickle cell trait & disease to thrive during, while challenging the broader community to learn about this genetic condition that affects 100,000 Americans living with sickle cell disease and 4 million Americans with sickle cell trait.



Impact

The As One Foundation, through its impactful programs and initiatives, has made a significant difference in the lives of those affected by sickle cell disease and sickle cell trait. Key programs like the Back to S.C.H.O.O.L. Awareness Day, The TRAIT SPACE support group, Operation Hydration and the annual Darling Dash 10K/5K/1K fundraiser embody the foundation's mission to empower families globally by providing critical education and support, building stronger communities around sickle cell education and awareness.

Contact Us

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2024 Darling Dash Sponsors