How I cope with cold weather as someone with sickle cell disease
It’s almost winter again here in the U.K., and every year I’m shocked by the cold weather and its impact on my body. Winter has always been one of my greatest adversaries, and as…
Sickle Sagas — Dunstan Nicol-Wilson
Dunstan Nicol-Wilson is a clinical project manager from South East London, United Kingdom. Dunstan has his master’s in public health with a global health focus. Dunstan was diagnosed with the “invisible disorder” sickle cell disease from birth in 1993. He hopes that his column will raise awareness for this disease, encourage others to share their stories, and showcase all the ups and downs of living with a rare condition. Dunstan loves anime, cooking, and Manchester United.
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Letting go of old patterns as I form new habits with sickle cell
I wanted to start new habits at the end of last year instead of at the beginning of 2025. Several sources told me I didn’t need to wait until the start of a new…
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Celebrating a milestone in gene therapy for sickle cell disease
I recently wrote about my disappointment regarding Pfizer’s decision to withdraw Oxbryta (voxelotor) from global markets as a treatment option for sickle cell disease. Therefore, it seems only fitting that I also celebrate…
Oxbryta’s withdrawal is a setback in the fight against sickle cell disease
Pfizer’s recent decision to withdraw Oxbryta (voxelotor) from global markets feels like a devastating blow for many people with sickle cell disease. Oxbryta’s conditional approval in 2019 by the U.S. Food…
Here’s what we can do for National Sickle Cell Awareness Month
For the sickle cell disease community, September is an important time for advocacy and raising awareness, because it’s National Sickle Cell Awareness Month. This year’s theme is “Sickle Cell Matters.” For me,…
How periodic fasting has led me to reflect about my choices
Note: This column describes the author’s own experiences with fasting. Not everyone will have the same response to it. Consult your doctor before starting or stopping a fasting practice. Challenging myself has often been…
Advancing representation of Black and sickle cell communities in media
Growing up in South London is a rare experience. There’s a plethora of rich and diverse African and Caribbean communities that have influenced the area’s culture. Word of mouth goes a long way, and…
Imagining a world without cultural stigma about sickle cell disease
Experiencing different cultures has made me appreciate how people interact with the world. I’ve been reflecting lately on how culture has influenced my actions, especially my advocacy for sickle cell patients. Both my…
Celebrating 3 years of documenting my sickle cell disease advocacy
This month is special for me. On June 14, I celebrated my third anniversary of writing this column for Sickle Cell Disease News, and June 19 will mark both World…
How to support a friend with sickle cell disease
Many people have asked me how they can be a good friend to someone with sickle cell disease. I’m always willing to give advice, but I include the caveat that my suggestions…
Another year around the sun while living with sickle cell disease
I celebrated my birthday last month, and I’m grateful to be 31 and see another year. I feel blessed — even though, in recent months, I’ve experienced loss within our sickle cell…
Being a mentor allows me to share what I’ve learned about sickle cell
One thing I enjoy doing in my life is mentoring young people with sickle cell disease. I decided to become a mentor a few years ago in order to share my experiences…
