SCT Talk

As a retired Sergeant First Class in the United States Army, my life has been defined by service, discipline, and resilience. But behind the uniform and the accolades lies a journey marked by unexpected challenges — challenges that have shaped my purpose and fueled my mission to educate others.

I was born with Sickle Cell Trait (SCT), a condition that is often misunderstood or underestimated. Unlike Sickle Cell Disease, SCT does not typically result in chronic symptoms. However, when combined with factors such as extreme physical exertion, dehydration, or high altitudes, it can lead to life-threatening complications like Rhabdomyolysis.

In September 2006, I was at the Advanced Noncommissioned Officer Course (ANCOC), working toward my Master Sergeant rank. During a physical fitness test at Camp Roberts, CA, I completed the two-mile run but collapsed shortly afterward. I was rushed to receive medical care, experiencing severe muscle pain, extreme fatigue, and difficulty recovering.

The diagnosis? Rhabdomyolysis — a condition where muscle fibers break down and release toxins into the bloodstream, potentially leading to kidney failure. At the time, I had no idea that my Sickle Cell Trait had predisposed me to this condition. It was a life-changing moment that forced me to confront the risks associated with my physical training and my own health.

That experience changed my life. I became determined to bridge the gap between awareness and action. The military, like many other high-performance environments, often lacks sufficient education about the risks associated with Sickle Cell Trait. While SCT is a silent condition for most, its potential to trigger exertion-related complications is a reality that can no longer be ignored.

After retiring, I channeled my experiences into advocacy. As the founder and CEO of WHATZ DA COUNT, I have dedicated myself to raising awareness about Sickle Cell Trait, Rhabdomyolysis, and their connection to exercise-induced complications. My mission is to educate athletes, coaches, military personnel, and medical professionals about the importance of screening, hydration, and recognizing early symptoms of exertion-related illnesses.

I’ve become an invited speaker nationally and internationally, sharing my story and expertise through virtual events, podcasts, talk shows, community events, and conferences. I’ve addressed audiences at all levels of education — from elementary schools to universities — as well as military bases around the world. My advocacy has also reached churches, sporting events, and training camps.

In addition to physical health awareness, I tackle mental health topics, including suicide ideation and behavioral health challenges. Across California and major cities throughout the United States, I work to promote mental toughness and provide support at every level of behavioral health care.

Through these efforts, I aim to prevent others from experiencing the pain and uncertainty I endured, while fostering understanding and compassion in the communities I serve.

The military trains us to overcome adversity, but it also teaches us the value of teamwork and looking out for one another. To truly protect our brothers and sisters in uniform, we must ensure that everyone — from recruits to senior leaders — understands the risks associated with Sickle Cell Trait and physical exertion.

This isn’t just about the military. It’s about creating a culture of awareness in all high-stakes environments, from sports fields to boot camps. By normalizing discussions about conditions like SCT, we can save lives and foster a safer, more inclusive approach to physical training.