Sickle Cell Collaborative

Meet Our Program Manager: Ariel Salisbury, RN

Ariel, a dedicated registered nurse, has provided compassionate care across all levels during her time at Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital. Now serving as the Clinical Program Manager for the Sickle Cell Collaborative, she brings her expertise and warmth to support sickle cell patients and their families. With a deep commitment to both clinical excellence and emotional support, Ariel ensures that every individual she serves receives care that is not only effective but also empathetic and uplifting.

Meet Our Physician: Angela Venuto-Ashton, MD

Dr. Angela Venuto-Ashton is board certified in internal medicine, integrative holistic medicine and addiction medicine . She provides clinical guidance for creating a better life for our sickle cell patients and is passionate about treating the whole patient.

Meet Our Patient Representative: Charisse Brewer

Charisse Brewer is a dedicated Patient Representative with a strong background in emergency department care and patient advocacy. Drawing on her extensive experience working with patients during some of their most challenging moments, Charisse is passionate about helping individuals navigate the healthcare system with confidence and ease. Her compassionate approach, excellent communication skills, and commitment to patient-centered care make her a trusted resource for patients and families alike. Through her work with the Sickle Cell Collaborative, Charisse strives to ensure every patient feels heard, supported, and connected to the resources they need to achieve the best possible health outcomes.

Meet Our Social Worker: Kasey Dunton

Kasey Dunton is a dedicated social worker with years of experience serving individuals and families across a wide range of healthcare and community settings. Her extensive background has provided her with expertise in addressing complex social, emotional, and resource-related needs while advocating for those she serves. Passionate about helping others, Kasey is committed to empowering patients and families by connecting them with the support, resources, and guidance they need to thrive. Through her compassionate approach and unwavering dedication, she strives to make a meaningful difference in the lives of every individual she encounters, ensuring they feel supported, valued, and heard throughout their healthcare journey.

Meet Our Pediatric Physician: Violet M. Borowicz, MD

Dr. Violet Borowicz is a pediatric hematology oncology and pediatric palliative medicine physician with Carilion Children’s. She completed medical school at Drexel University College of Medicine in Philadelphia, PA. She joined Carilion in 2014 after completing her fellowship in pediatric hematology oncology at Children's National Hospital in Washington, DC. She served as an associate program director for the pediatric residency program at Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine (VTCSOM) from 2019 – 2026. In 2017, she became the medical director for Care Connection in Roanoke. She was promoted to associate professor of pediatrics at VTCSOM in July 2022. In July 2026, she became the medical director for our comprehensive sickle cell program for pediatrics. She's passionate about wellbeing and considering the whole patient with goals and quality of life as it pertains to chronic illness.

Meet Our Pediatric Social Worker: Hannah Wright, MSW

Hannah is a dedicated social worker who provides essential support and resources to individuals and families affected by sickle cell disease. She is committed to helping them navigate personal challenges and overcome barriers within the community. Hannah strives to meet each person where they are, helping them to thrive while managing this disease.

Meet Our Pediatric Nurse Navigator: Andria Smith, RN

With more than two decades of experience as a registered nurse, Andria brings deep expertise in clinical education, oncology coordination, and compassionate patient advocacy. She serves as our pediatric hematology-oncology nurse navigator. She specializes in guiding young patients and their families through complex cancer and blood disorder journeys. 

We're here to help! For questions or to speak with a member of our team, please call us at 540-682-1128.