Intentional lifestyle changes got me through winter without a crisis
My progress is the result of learning my body’s signals and respecting its limits
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As the season shifts from winter to spring, I’ve found myself reflecting deeply on what this past winter has meant for me.
Historically, winter has been the hardest part of my journey with sickle cell disease, marked by crisis flare-ups, increased pain, and a constant awareness of how the cold affects my body. But this year has been different. While this winter brought snowstorms and negative temperatures, for the first time in a long time, I managed it all without experiencing a crisis or a major flare-up. I don’t take this shift lightly.
I’m incredibly grateful, and I know it didn’t happen by chance. It was the result of intentional lifestyle changes I’ve built over time, and three decades of learning my body’s signals, respecting its limits, and responding with care. Beyond that, I truly believe it’s also the result of many prayers answered throughout my life.
Winter, for me, used to represent fear. It used to feel dark, heavy, and uncertain. But this time, I approached it differently. I faced it head-on with mental resilience, preparation, and a commitment to doing things in a way I hadn’t before.
Reflecting on this progress, I identified a few key shifts that made the difference.
Hope and responsibility
Firstly, I maintained consistency in my fitness. Even in the cold, I stayed active. But I learned to balance pushing myself with knowing when to stop. Movement became a tool for strength, not a trigger for burnout.
Secondly, I became more intentional about how I manage my energy, especially when traveling. February and March have been busy months for me, as I traveled between London, Amsterdam, Switzerland, and Portugal. In the past, I would’ve rushed from one place to another. This time, I planned differently. I built in rest days. I avoided unnecessary back-and-forth travel. I listened to my body. Because of that, I managed journeys I wouldn’t have thought possible just a few years ago.
Thirdly, I prioritized preparedness. Now, I never travel without my medication or heating pad. It’s no longer about reacting when something goes wrong, but rather being ready before it does. That small shift has made a huge difference. It prevents minor discomfort from escalating into something serious.
And finally, I’ve learned to set better boundaries. This winter, I wasn’t as socially active, and that was intentional. I listened to my body when it needed rest. I said no when I needed to. That hasn’t always been easy for me, but I’ve come to understand that prioritizing my health isn’t selfish; it’s necessary.
These changes, taken together, have allowed me to come into this new spring season feeling physically stronger than I have in a long time. With this improvement comes both hope and responsibility. I’m hopeful for what’s ahead: better weather, more connection, and continued growth, physically and mentally. But I’m also aware that this progress requires consistency. This isn’t a cure; it’s a commitment. If I lose these habits, I risk falling back into patterns that could lead to another crisis.
What I’m experiencing now is the result of everything working together: nutrition, fitness, supplements, rest, mindset, and self-awareness. It’s the result of years of learning and trial and error. I’ve chosen to do things differently now. And when I think back to the younger version of myself, lying in hospital beds or pushing through work while in pain, I couldn’t have dreamed of being in this place.
That’s why this new season means so much to me. It represents growth and possibility. It reinforces my purpose as an advocate to share these lessons and show what’s possible with the right tools and awareness. I want to help others living with sickle cell manage their condition in a way that feels empowering, because this isn’t just about surviving another season; it’s about stepping into a new one, stronger, wiser, and more in control than ever before.
Note: Sickle Cell Disease News is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Sickle Cell Disease News or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues about sickle cell disease.
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