Mary Shaniqua,  —

Mary Shaniqua is a sickle cell patient (HbSS) living in the United Kingdom. She was diagnosed with sickle cell at 18 months old and uses "Shaniqua’s Sickle Chronicles" to narrate her experiences, to educate healthcare professionals, as well as empower and embolden other sickle cell patients. Mary Shaniqua is committed to raising awareness of sickle cell and its impact, with an aim to educate non-haematological specialist healthcare workers and the general public more widely on the life of a sickle cell patient.

Articles by Mary Shaniqua

Reflecting on Another Year With Sickle Cell Disease

For me, 2022 has just been OK in terms of sickle cell disease. I’m still not where I’d like to be health-wise, but I’m getting closer. One thing I’d really like to celebrate is that I haven’t contracted any severe infections this year. That is a big win, and…

How to Prepare Children With Sickle Cell Disease for Adulthood

When children become adults, they must transition from pediatric to adult healthcare services. Transition programs are particularly important for helping patients with chronic conditions navigate this switch. A good program ensures patients are informed about any changes to their care and treatment, and I believe it should also help…

How to Prepare for Holiday Travel With Sickle Cell Anemia

Imagine: You’ve had a long and stressful few months, you’ve accrued some leave at work, and you’ve saved up some money, so you decide to take a holiday. You already have a bucket list of locations you want to visit, so selecting a holiday destination, accommodations, and itinerary took you…