Columns

Dealing with sickle cell disease poses unique challenges that affect not only patients but also their loved ones and caregivers. It is crucial to communicate fully about the disease with those around us. As the primary caregiver for my adolescent cousin Ada, who has sickle cell disease and…

As I reflect on my life’s journey with sickle cell disease, I’ve concluded that one of the most important factors in managing it is having a sound support system. A great support system has made the journey easier and the load lighter for me, alleviating some of my challenges.

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 parents are from Sierra Leone, and I was born and raised in London. Sierra Leoneans have…

I recently shared my thoughts here on why accepting the reality and implications of a sickle cell diagnosis is essential for both patients and their loved ones. One element of my support system is a virtual group of sickle cell patients. We all aim to share knowledge and…

Here in Nigeria, growing into adulthood with sickle cell disease used to be considered an impossibility. Sadly, people like me who were living with sickle cell disease were labeled as “abiku,” which means “born to die soon.” I, too, was told by many that I wouldn’t survive beyond…

I recently shared my journey to accept my diagnosis of sickle cell disease. When people are told they have an illness, it not only affects them, but those around them as well. It’s therefore not just patients who have to accept the journey ahead, but their loved ones, too.

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 Sickle Cell Day and Juneteenth. The past three years have been quite a journey, and I’m…

My last column about my medication compliance triggered an interesting conversation with my sister. I’d written about what I did to reach 100% compliance, which is great and necessary for someone who, like me, has sickle cell disease. But the column didn’t touch on how I traveled that…

As the school holidays approach here in Nigeria, the excitement in my household is palpable. My kids, along with my cousin Ada, who lives with sickle cell disease, are eagerly looking forward to the break. The holidays promise longer sleep hours, extended screen time, and endless play under the…

Pica is a disorder characterized by a persistent craving and consumption of nonnutritive or nonfood substances, such as soap, tissue, chalk, ice, paper, sand, or charcoal. This behavior can be harmful and even poisonous, posing significant health risks. According to an article published in 2020 in the journal JBI…