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How can you help a loved one with sickle cell disease? As a patient, I’m asked this question frequently, especially when I’m unwell. The reality is that there’s no single grandiose action that will help people living with sickle cell disease. I’d challenge loved ones to think smaller,…

From my experience, pain is one of the hallmark symptoms of sickle cell disease. In fact, it is its trademark. Unsurprisingly, the translation of sickle cell disease in my Yoruba language is “aro’moleegun,” which denotes “bone pain.” If you have moderate to severe sickle cell disease, pain is…

When traveling with someone who has sickle cell disease, it’s crucial to be well prepared for any emergencies that may arise. Most importantly, don’t forget to pack your regular prescriptions! I made that rookie error when I took an unexpected trip with my entire family, including my little niece…

I’ve been reflecting on what it means to have an invisible condition. Sickle cell disease is often called an invisible illness because you can’t immediately see it and it’s poorly understood. Life would be easier if people could tell that I had sickle cell and not make assumptions…

I graduated from college in 2010. Fortunately for me, I was able to secure a job before I had even finished school. In August of that year, after finishing my final exams, submitting my dissertation, and passing a background check, I began a full-time job. I’ve been working ever since,…

“I have another patient with sickle cell disease, but she’s not affected as severely as you. What’s wrong with you?” “This person has your same genotype. Why isn’t she experiencing the same sickle cell complications as you are?” “I know a sickle cell warrior who can do this…

As I write, a familiar chorus plays in the background, followed by the line, “Please swallow your pride.” Aside from the hook, I’ve never really listened to the lyrics of Bill Withers’ “Lean on Me,” but this line struck me. As someone with sickle cell disease, my stance…

Even though I already had my hands full with two toddlers, I agreed to help take care of my young cousin when my mother suggested it. She’d called to tell me that my aunt Celina, who’d recently lost her first son to sickle cell disease and was still in…

February is often known as the month of love. That makes it an interesting time in the sickle cell community, as I often see differing viewpoints on how to approach dating with the disease. This week, I’ll be speaking on Instagram about love and sickle cell. To…

I’ve shared some of the hurdles I face when traveling abroad as someone with sickle cell disease. I now have something else to add to the list. I recently returned home to the U.K. after a three-week trip to Jamaica. Not only was it my first long-haul flight,…