The Misunderstood Warriors

Growing up, I  had a weak immune system. I’d fall ill at the slightest thing, and because of that, I got tagged as a “sickler” by people who should have known better—my teachers, no less! I can still vividly remember how much it hurt to be labeled that way, the stigma!!!!

I first heard about sickle cell when I was in secondary school. My brother had two classmates (Moses and Esther) who were top of the class yet often sick. It was through them I learned about sickle cell disease. Let me add—they weren’t just brilliant, they were exceptionally brillianttt!! Their intelligence rubbed off on anyone and everyone they were friends with. I remember my brother, who wasn’t doing so well academically, suddenly becoming a top student after hanging out with them.

Sadly, I’ll never forget how the sister( Esther) passed away while we were still in secondary school, leaving just the brother. Their story stayed with me.

Oh, and then there’s my uncle. His story is one for the books. This man was “blinded by love”—he didn’t check his genotype, and neither did his wife. Their first two kids were perfectly healthy, so nobody suspected a thing… until they had twins. One of the twins passed away after just two years, and that’s when they decided to run tests. It was only then they discovered that the twins had sickle cell disease. By that point, I fully understood what it meant to live with this condition, having already lost schoolmates, family to it and even been tagged “one”.

What Exactly Is Sickle Cell?

Sickle cell disease is a genetic disorder of the red blood cells. Normally, red blood cells are circular and flexible, which allows them to flow smoothly through the blood vessels. In people with sickle cell, the red blood cells are shaped like a sickle, half moon (🌙), which makes it hard for blood to flow properly. This obstruction can cause severe pain, crises, or even organ damage.

Common Symptoms Include:

Fatigue and weakness

Frequent pain episodes (known as pain crises)

Swelling in the hands and feet

Delayed growth or puberty

Frequent infections

How Can Warriors Stay Strong?

For those living with sickle cell, it’s crucial to take prescribed medications regularly (no self-medication!) and stay hydrated—water is a lifesaver! 💧 Also, regular check-ups with a doctor are non-negotiable. With the right care, many warriors live long and fulfilling lives.

To Everyone Else:

Let’s talk about stigma. It’s heartbreaking to see people stigmatize or belittle warriors for something they have no control over or even people who constantly fall sick. It’s not their fault. They are going through so much, why then do we have to add to it. The shame, The stigma, The silence have to stop let’s share love and be a safe space for them. The least we can do is offer them love, kindness, and support.

Oh, and one more thing—STOP calling them “sicklers.” It’s demeaning and outdated. They are sickle cell warriors, and they deserve to be addressed with respect and dignity.

To Every Warrior Reading This:

You are strong. You are a testament to resilience, strength, patience and endurance. You deserve love, respect, and every good thing that this life has to offer. Keep shining bright—you’re an inspiration to us all! 🌟and your light shines so bright 💡

Let’s all do better. Together, we can break the cycle of ignorance and stigma while putting a big smile on the faces of our warriors