Man becomes first Louisiana patient functionally cured of sickle cell through gene therapy

NEW ORLEANS — Daniel Cressy, a 23‑year‑old from Metairie, has become the first person in Louisiana to be functionally cured of sickle cell disease through gene therapy, marking a historic breakthrough for a state with one of the nation’s highest sickle cell rates. Doctors say the disease is no longer active in his body after a demanding two‑year treatment journey.

Cressy received the curative therapy at Manning Family Children’s Hospital, where specialists used his own stem cells to correct the genetic defect that causes sickle cell disease. His cells were edited in a laboratory and returned to his body after chemotherapy cleared his bone marrow. According to doctors, the edited cells now produce healthy hemoglobin, ending the cycle of pain and organ damage.

He rang the hospital’s ceremonial bell on June 22, celebrating the moment he had worked toward for more than two years.

A Disease That Has Shaped Life in Louisiana

Sickle cell disease is the world’s most common genetic blood disorder. Louisiana has more cases per capita than any other state. The disease disproportionately affects African Americans and often leads to chronic pain, infections and shortened life expectancy.

Doctors say recent advances in gene editing are transforming treatment. By altering a patient’s stem cells before the disease causes irreversible harm, many children and young adults can now be treated and functionally cured.

Daniel Cressy’s Sickle Cell Journey

Cressy was diagnosed as an infant. His family followed every recommended treatment and worked to keep him healthy. But as he grew older, the disease intensified. He endured frequent pain crises that sent him to emergency rooms when he should have been in class or with friends.

Despite the setbacks, he refused to let the disease define him. He stayed focused on school, built a support network and pursued his dream of becoming a commercial pilot.

A Dream Back Within Reach

The FAA denied Cressy medical clearance because of his diagnosis. He appealed and learned he could qualify only if he cured the disease. That news pushed him to pursue gene therapy.

Now cured, he plans to continue flight training and expand his aviation nonprofit, Privileged Pilots, which helps young people access opportunities in aviation.

A Turning Point for Sickle Cell Treatment

Doctors say Cressy’s case reflects national trial data showing strong results for gene‑editing therapies. More than 90% of patients in clinical studies have gone at least a year without sickled cells blocking blood flow.

Hospital leaders called his cure a “transformational moment” for families affected by sickle cell disease in Louisiana and across the Gulf South.