How Carlos Boozer’s Twins Helped Cure Their Brother of Sickle Cell Disease

For the Boozer family, a journey to save their son Carmani from sickle cell disease led to an extraordinary medical solution: the birth of his twin brothers, Cameron and Cayden. This story highlights the power of familial love and the advancements in medical technology, specifically in vitro fertilization (IVF) and stem cell transplantation.

Understanding Sickle Cell Disease

Sickle cell disease is a group of inherited red blood cell disorders. Normally, red blood cells are round and flexible, allowing them to move easily through small blood vessels. In sickle cell disease, the red blood cells become rigid and shaped like crescents or sickles. These sickle cells can block blood flow, causing pain, organ damage and a variety of other health problems.

The Challenge for the Boozer Family

Both Carlos and CeCe Boozer carried the sickle cell gene, meaning their son Carmani had a high chance of inheriting the disease. The best chance for a cure was a stem cell transplant using umbilical cord blood from a perfectly matched sibling. Still, due to both parents carrying the gene, finding a naturally matched sibling was improbable.

An Extraordinary Solution: IVF and Embryo Screening

The Boozers turned to a groundbreaking solution: in vitro fertilization (IVF) with preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD). This process involved harvesting 34 egg cells from CeCe Boozer, fertilizing them, and then screening the resulting embryos for the sickle cell gene. Of the ten fertilized embryos, only two were found to be a perfect match – sickle-cell-free and suitable for transplantation. These two embryos developed into Cameron and Cayden Boozer.

The Transplant and Carmani’s Recovery

In May, doctors declared Carmani completely cured of sickle cell anemia. The process involved a central line being placed in Carmani’s chest and intensive chemotherapy in preparation for a cord-blood stem-cell transplant. The treatment was painful and carried risks, but ultimately proved successful.

Life After Treatment

As of 2026, Carmani Boozer is thriving, playing baseball at the University of Fort Lauderdale. His twin brothers, Cameron and Cayden, are expected to follow in their father’s footsteps and pursue careers in the NBA.

Key Takeaways

• Sickle cell disease is a serious inherited blood disorder.
• IVF with PGD can offer a path to cure for siblings with sickle cell disease.
• Stem cell transplantation can be a life-saving treatment for sickle cell disease.
• The Boozer family’s story demonstrates the power of medical innovation and familial love.