The 10th Annual Darling Dash 5k Race for Sickle Cell Trait is the only race of it's kind that funds sickle cell trait education through Operation Hydration - our sickle cell trait education program. It takes place on the annual death anniversary of Devaughn Darling, a Florida State University student-athlete who lost his life to exertional sickling and dehydration - complications of sickle cell trait. Darling Dash participants experience a festive, family-friendly, fun-filled atmosphere where they can walk or run a race and fraternize with retired and current professional athletes and local celebrities who generously hang out for photo ops and to sign autographs.
PURPOSE:
The mission of the As One Foundation is to education and increase awareness of sickle cell trait while encouraging young people to achieve their dreams in the face of life challenges. The Darling Dash 5k is our signature fundraiser where proceeds fund Operation Hydration - our sickle cell trait education program that promotes hydration as prevention of exertional sickling death. The Devard and Devaughn Darling Scholarship Award, which to date has awarded over $100,000 in scholarships to Houston area high school seniors, is also funded by the Darling Dash proceeds.
