NORFOLK, Va., Feb. 11, 2019—The Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) and Howard University will host a 5K walk/run, the Run to Cure Sickle Cell, to raise awareness of sickle cell on Saturday, Feb. 23, during the 2019 MEAC Indoor Track & Field Championships in Landover, Md.
 
Participants, led by Howard University president Dr. Wayne A. I. Frederick, will start the 5K at 9 a.m. on the track in the Prince George's Sports and Learning Complex. Those who participate will be granted free admission to Saturday's events during the MEAC Indoor Track & Field Championship.
 
"The MEAC is proud to partner with Howard University and President Dr. Wayne A. I. Frederick to bring awareness to sickle cell," MEAC Commissioner Dr. Dennis E. Thomas said. "This is a worthwhile cause, particularly given how prevalent this disease is among the African-American community. Dr. Frederick is the perfect role model for sickle cell disease, by his successes achieved professionally and personally."
 
"I am excited to work with the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference to host this special 5K walk/run to bring more awareness to sickle cell and the critical research taking place at Howard University to find a cure," Dr. Frederick said. "I look forward to running with the MEAC student-athletes and HBCU alumni to shine a spotlight on this worthy cause."
 
In addition, information on sickle cell, as well as screening, will be available on the concourse throughout the day.
 
Donations can be made by clicking here, and proceeds will go toward the Center for Sickle Cell Disease at Howard University Hospital.
 
To register for the 5K, click here.
 
The MEAC Indoor Track & Field Championships begin Thursday, Feb. 21. Events will conclude Saturday, Feb. 23, with the awards ceremony.
 
For more information on the 2019 MEAC Indoor Track & Field Championships and a schedule of events, please visit the Championships page on www.MEACsports.com.