SXU Nursing Alumna Dedicated to Sickle Cell Advocacy
Saint Xavier University (SXU) alumna Khen Carter '23 is a compassionate nurse, children's book author, and healthcare advocate with big dreams for making an impact on the sickle cell community.
Carter's desire to become a nurse began long before she ever stepped into a classroom. Growing up with sickle cell disease, she spent much of her childhood in and out of hospitals undergoing blood transfusions, surgeries and treatments. The medical care that helped save her life also resulted in bilateral hearing loss, and she received a cochlear implant at the age of four.
"Throughout those years, I experienced firsthand the difference that compassionate healthcare professionals can make. There were nurses who not only cared for me medically but also advocated for me, comforted me during difficult moments, and reminded me that I was more than my diagnosis. Their kindness left a lasting impression on me and inspired my dream of becoming a nurse who could make the same impact on others," said Carter.
When Carter was ready to pursue a college education, she chose Saint Xavier University because she wanted a strong, respected nursing program with the ability to remain close to home due to her health challenges.
"I had heard wonderful things about SXU's Nursing program, even from nurses who had cared for me over the years. I knew the program would challenge me but also prepare me to become the kind of nurse I aspired to be," said Carter.
Carter's path through nursing school was far from traditional. During her time at SXU, she faced multiple health setbacks, including blood clots, major surgery, and two strokes. These challenges forced her to take several semesters off and delayed her graduation.
"There were times when it felt like every step forward was met with another obstacle. Despite these setbacks, I remained determined to finish what I started. With the support of my family, healthcare team, and the faculty and administration at SXU, I continued to persevere and ultimately earned my nursing degree. Looking back, those experiences strengthened my resilience and reinforced my commitment to caring for others facing their own challenges," said Carter.
Carter, who works in outpatient nursing, also teaches and mentors CNA students, helping prepare the next generation of healthcare professionals through instruction, tutoring, and career guidance. In addition, she is a children's book author, a mother, and a fiancée.
"Many of my experiences as a patient have shaped the way I care for others and have fueled my passion for advocacy, particularly within the sickle cell community," said Carter.
Carter's book, "My Sister is My Hero," follows the story of Tiana and her sister, who take readers on a hero's journey to overcome sickle cell disease.
Carter believes SXU played a significant role in preparing her for her career.
"The Nursing program challenged me to think critically, stay proactive, and commit to lifelong learning. The confidence, clinical judgment, and leadership skills I developed at SXU continue to guide me every day as a nurse and educator. The program taught me not only how to provide excellent patient care but also how to advocate for patients and approach healthcare with compassion and empathy," said Carter.
While at SXU, Carter was actively involved on campus as a resident assistant, a member of the Student Nurses Association, and a nursing tutor. These experiences helped her to build leadership skills, support her peers, and become more involved in the SXU community.
"Some of my favorite memories at SXU center around the relationships I built. One of the most meaningful moments was being chosen by my classmates to speak at our pinning ceremony. Another favorite memory was meeting my now best friend on move-in day," said Carter.
As both a nurse and a sickle cell advocate, SXU's Mercy mission of compassion and service holds deep meaning for Carter.
"To me, compassion means seeing the person behind the diagnosis and meeting people where they are. Service means using our skills and experiences to help others without expecting anything in return. Having spent much of my life as a patient, I understand how powerful empathy, advocacy, and human connection can be. Those values guide my work every day," said Carter.
Looking ahead, Carter's goal is to continue expanding her impact on the sickle cell community. In 2027, she plans to open the Khen Carter Sickle Cell Center in Chicago, a clinic dedicated to providing comprehensive care for patients with sickle cell disease while serving the broader community as well.
"My hope is to create a space where patients feel heard, supported, and empowered. Every step of my journey—from being a young patient in a hospital bed to becoming a nurse and educator—has led me toward that mission, and I am excited for what lies ahead."