Columns

Is there a worse feeling than when someone you love is unwell and you can’t help them? Because I have sickle cell disease, my immune system is compromised. This means I can catch illnesses easily. When I do get sick, it can be disastrous. A typical cold or flu…

New Year’s resolutions were never really my thing. In the past, my attempts often fizzled out quickly — like the gym membership that gathered dust by February. To avoid disappointment, I swapped out strict goals for a list of hopeful, more gentle aspirations. This year, topping that list was a…

In people with sickle cell disease, episodes of pain are often referred to as sickle cell crises and can lead to frequent hospitalizations. These crises may be precipitated by various triggers. As I matured, I became aware of what triggers a crisis for me. I learned to…

At the end of each year, it seems like everyone and their dog publishes a round-up on social media of all the wonderful things they experienced in the previous 12 months. It’s great, as I love hearing about the good that happens in people’s lives. Too often, we seem to…

Growing up, health professionals and others often told me I didn’t look like a sickle cell patient. Their remarks left me wondering what was so unusual about my appearance and what I was expected to look like as someone living with sickle cell disease. One vivid memory from…

It’s the season for new beginnings and expanding on our past successes. I’m grateful to see another year; it’s a blessing and a privilege. In remembrance of those who didn’t make it into the new year, it’s essential to appreciate what they gave us and how they spent their…

It was the evening of Nov. 17. I’d finished work and was going about my usual evening activities when my mum called to catch up. She asked if I’d heard the news of an apparent cure for sickle cell. I hadn’t, so I asked her further questions — but…

Christmas has grown beyond its origins as a Christian celebration of Jesus’ birth. It now unites communities and fosters a sense of togetherness across cultural backgrounds, religious beliefs, and geographical locations. The unique culture of Christmas, with its twinkling lights, festive decorations, and colorful trees adorned with ornaments, along with…

Disability carries a strong stigma, and there’s widespread global ignorance about its meaning. While many associate disability solely with physical or mental impairments, the true definition encompasses more. Many Africans with…

Note: This column describes the author’s own experiences with opioids and alternative forms of pain relief. Not everyone will have the same response to treatment. Consult your doctor before starting or stopping a therapy. Unfortunately, as winter descends upon us here in the U.K., my chances of experiencing…