A Lifetime with Martin Center: Sharon’s Story as a Senior Warrior

Sharon Hatcher-Hutchinson, Senior Warrior, shares her letter to Martin Center

“Martin Center has been there for me through times when I needed a friend”.

My name is Sharon,

Having an illness is very hard to live with. Sometimes you don't understand what might happen to you. Sometimes you can't wrap your head around “Why this has happened to you”. Sometimes it can allow you to become sad and fall into depression. Then, of course, you just don't know when, how, or where to get or find help. 

I have truly been blessed to have parents who looked for ways and avenues to help me with Sickle Cell Disease. My parents found Martin Center to help me along my journey and cope with some of the negative impacts of this debilitating disease. My parents became involved with Martin Center as far back as the early 1970’s. Little did they know that I would stay with them, become fond of them, and get very active with the Martin Center as time went on. 

Martin Center has become my “Go To,” and I am so proud to be part of Martin Center’s family of Sickle Cell “WARRIORS.” Martin Center has been there for me through times when I needed a friend. They have fed me through the pantry, clothed my children and me through referral programs, and have been a listening ear when I had times of sadness. Martin Center has provided fuel for my vehicle through the Gas Card program, so that I could get to and from my doctor's office. 

There are many resources that the Martin Center provides. They even acknowledge and award Warriors for help during our fundraising seasons, such as the 5-K Sickle Cell Walk. I am so proud of the accomplishments and strides that Martin Center has made and continues to make to help the warriors in the state of Indiana.  

As a proud warrior, I give back to Martin Center, as much as I can, by volunteering my time, helping where they need me in the office and served as a valuable voice on the Board of Directors for our warriors, so that others coming behind me can see that Martin Center is a special place that also needs our help to continue the great work that they are doing in our community. I hope and pray that others can see the benefits of having a wonderful place like the Martin Center and value their integrity and work. Thank you, Mom and Dad, for this precious gift. No one can ever take my experiences with Martin Center away from me, and I am so grateful. 

Sharon Hatcher-Hutchinson, Senior Warrior 

Martin Center Sickle Cell Initiative