Everyone at the Sickle Cell Society was deeply shocked and saddened to hear of the death of Simonne Kerr. A long-time member, dedicated volunteer, friend, and recently qualified sickle cell nurse, Simonne was passionate about helping others and will be deeply missed. We want to raise funds to help support her family at this difficult time. Please join with us in honouring her memory and supporting her family by donating to this page.

Having lived with sickle cell trait and raising a young child, Kavele, with sickle cell disorder, Simonne was dedicated to raising awareness of sickle cell and the importance of blood donation. She was a hard-working member of the Society who volunteered her time to help fundraise and to help run our annual childrens holiday.

In October 2015 her son, Kavele, sadly died from complications of sickle cell. Kaveles school, Leopold Primary School organised a memorial garden for Kavele. The garden, opened in 2017, was a quiet space for children to reflect and receive counselling. Simonne and the school also raised funds to support the Society in memory of Kavele.

We were all delighted when Simonne recently graduated as a registered nurse and started her NHS nursing career in the field of haemoglobinopathies. She loved her job and had a bright career ahead of her.

Simonne was also a very talented singer and a member of the Britains Got Talent finalist choir, B Positive. Through their spectacular music, B Positive, also raised awareness of the important issue of sickle cell blood donation. The choirs beautiful music and positive message are a testament to each of its members.

We are so grateful for all support and friendship Simonne has given us and for her passion for improving the lives of people living with sickle cell and their families. She will be deeply missed. Our sincere condolences go out to her friends and family.

John James (CEO of the Sickle Cell Society) said: We were so shocked to hear the news of Simonnes death. She was a good friend to the Society and will be deeply missed. My thoughts are with her mother, siblings and other family members at this difficult time.

Our patron, Professor Dame Elizabeth Anionwu talked to ITV news about Simonnes death and why the world needs to know about Simonne. You can watch it here.

Please join with us in honouring her memory and supporting her family by donating to this page.