Posts by: Mary Shaniqua

Mary Shaniqua

October 9, 2020October 8, 2020

Here’s What Triggers a Sickle Cell Crisis for Me

Columns, Shaniqua’s Sickle Chronicles – a Column by Mary Shaniqua

A sickle cell crisis is one of the main symptoms sickle cell patients face. However, just because we all experience the same symptoms, or similar ones, it doesn’t mean ... Read more

September 18, 2020September 17, 2020

Trying a Different Medication to Address Iron Overload

Columns, Shaniqua’s Sickle Chronicles – a Column by Mary Shaniqua

Iron overload is a common side effect for sickle cell patients participating in blood transfusion programs. When this happens, the body’s excessive iron levels can cause an accumulation of ... Read more

September 4, 2020September 1, 2020

My Birthday Wish for Sickle Cell Patients

Columns, Shaniqua’s Sickle Chronicles – a Column by Mary Shaniqua

I turned 31 on Aug. 20, 2020. That’s 31 years as a sickle cell patient, and what a journey it has been so far! As sickle cell patients, we ... Read more

August 7, 2020August 5, 2020

What Not to Say to Someone With Sickle Cell

Columns, Shaniqua’s Sickle Chronicles – a Column by Mary Shaniqua

Have you ever informed somebody of your diagnosis and found their response to be a little annoying? I often have. I try to extend grace in such situations because ... Read more

July 17, 2020July 15, 2020

Staying at Home Has Helped Me Follow a Healthier Routine

Columns, Shaniqua’s Sickle Chronicles – a Column by Mary Shaniqua

Living in lockdown the past few months has been quite an experience. If you had asked me before the pandemic if I could stay indoors for 12 weeks and ... Read more

June 19, 2020August 13, 2020

Here Are Ways to Help Friends with Sickle Cell Disease

Columns, Shaniqua’s Sickle Chronicles – a Column by Mary Shaniqua

Whenever I meet new people and tell them I have sickle cell disease (and explain what it is), they often ask how they can help. June 19 is World ... Read more

June 12, 2020June 11, 2020

Listening to Sickle Cell Patients Is Crucial During a Crisis

Columns, Shaniqua’s Sickle Chronicles – a Column by Mary Shaniqua

I recently was admitted to the hospital during a sickle cell crisis and because of suspected COVID-19. My experience was harrowing. I have experienced many things as a sickle ... Read more

May 22, 2020May 21, 2020

What’s Inside My Medicine Cabinet?

Columns, Shaniqua’s Sickle Chronicles – a Column by Mary Shaniqua

Living with sickle cell disease, I rely on several medications and treatments for various situations. In general, I take medications for my own well-being, as research shows that sickle ... Read more

April 21, 2020June 11, 2020

Sickle Cell, Darwinism, and COVID-19: Is My Life Worth Less Than Yours?

Columns, Shaniqua’s Sickle Chronicles – a Column by Mary Shaniqua

“Survival of the fittest” is a phrase I have come to loathe. This manner of thinking is particularly appalling to hear as a sickle cell patient. I have heard ... Read more

April 7, 2020April 6, 2020

During Lockdown, It’s OK to Rest, Too

Columns, Shaniqua’s Sickle Chronicles – a Column by Mary Shaniqua

I was hospitalized on March 3 with a sickle cell crisis and discharged 12 days later. I then spent a week recovering at home. Under normal circumstances, I would ... Read more