A Somersfield Academy student is arranging a special tea to raise money for a cause close to her heart - Sickle Cell Disease.

The tea is the brain child of Shakira Warner, a Year 5 Student at Somersfield Academy.

Sickle-cell disease is a general term for a group of genetic disorders caused by sickle haemoglobin. In some forms of the disease the red blood cells change shape. This process damages the red cell membrane, and can cause the cells to become stuck in blood vessels. This deprives the downstream tissues of much needed oxygen. The disease is chronic and lifelong. People who have it are often well, but have episodes of periodic painful attacks. Their lifespan can be shortened because of the disease.

"As part of the graduation requirements at my school, Year 5 students must complete a personal project," Miss Warner said. "For my personal project, I am organising a fundraising tea and auction featuring Bermudian painters. The proceeds will benefit the Bermuda Sickle Cell Foundation."

Miss Warner selected this foundation because her brother Adrian has the disease.

"The Bermuda Sickle Cell Foundation provides funds for scholarships and medical expenses for those with this disease who are in need," Miss Warner said. "One of the scholarships was named in honour of my deceased great aunt, Arlene Warner.

"I love art and enjoy organising; as a result, I decided that an art auction would give me the opportunity to learn more about Bermudian artists and it would be a fun way to raise money for this very worthy group."

Miss Warner is delighted that both established and new artists have agreed to support her efforts.

"I hope people will join me for an exciting afternoon," she said.

The fundraising tea and fine arts auction will be held on December 3rd from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the home of Dr. and Mrs. Wilbert Warner at "Cardinal Hill", 26 Summit View Drive in Hamilton Parish.

The auctioneer will be Mr. Leonard Gibbons of Leonard O. Gibbons Real Estate Limited.

RSVP by November 28, 2006 via email: wwarner@ibl.bm .