About Otis Uduebor

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Diagnosed with sickle cell disease at the age of four, Otis was told he would not live to see his fifth birthday and, if he did, would not grow to be more than three feet tall. But Otis defied the odds. At his death in January 2007, Otis was 23 years old and over six feet tall.

In his 23 years, Otis touched many lives as an example of perseverance and faith. He simply would not allow himself to be defeated by the physical obstacles of his disease. In 2005, Otis was crowned Homecoming King for the University of North Texas and was recognized by the Department of Housing and Residence Life for Outstanding Service and Professionalism. He was a student leader, serving as the Chief Financial Officer of the Coalition of Black Organizations, Vice President and Ethics and Concerns Committee Chair of the Residents Life Advisory Council, Welcoming Committee Chair of the National Association of Black Journalists, a Resident Assistant and a Housing Ambassador. He gave several speeches on sickle cell disease, participated in medical research of sickle cell and informally adopted a local family affected by sickle cell.

In August 2006, Otis graduated from the University of North Texas with a Bachelor of Arts in Radio, Television and Film. Following graduation, Otis joined the Beta Tau Alpha Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. where he planned to launch a national campaign to increase sickle cell awareness and research.

Beyond his many achievements and dreams, Otis was a man of integrity; a loving son, brother and friend; and a devoted Christian whose relationship with Jesus Christ poured into every aspect of his life. In his honor, the Uduebor family has established the Otis Uduebor Sickle Cell Foundation — a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the quality of life of persons with sickle cell disease and their loved ones. Our hope is that his life will inspire you to do the same!

Otis lived each day with purpose. Our hope is that his life will inspire you to do the same!

See Otis' Photo Gallery