‘Sickle Cell Disease Not Death Sentence’

Advocates and healthcare professionals have said that sickle cell disease is not a death sentence.

They disclosed this at an event recently held in Abuja, “Breaking Stigmas: Promoting Acceptance and Understanding of Sickle Cell Disease,” aimed at shifting public perceptions and marking World Sickle Cell Day.

Organised by Mirror Me in collaboration with Ghenesphere, the event highlighted the inspiring journey of Destiny Kobiro Eselemo, a prominent figure in the sickle cell community.

The principal executive of Mirror Me and the event organiser, Daniel Ojo, emphasised the urgent need for societal change regarding perceptions of the disease.

“Sickle cell disease is not a death sentence,” Ojo declared. “We must stop viewing individuals with sickle cell as weak or incapable. They are strong and resilient, and it’s time society recognises that.”

Supporting Ojo’s advocacy was Olunaike, the event’s keynote speaker, who underscored the importance of a positive attitude and supportive environments for sickle cell patients.

She urged healthcare practitioners to approach treatment with empathy and understanding, cautioning against assumptions about pain management and drug use among patients.

“We must dispel the myth that sickle cell warriors exaggerate pain for drugs. “Employers, too, must reconsider biases against hiring individuals with sickle cell. These individuals have tremendous potential and deserve equal opportunities,” Olunaike stated firmly.

Adding a medical perspective, Ovye Ewuge, a consultant haematologist at the Federal Medical Centre in Keffi, Nasarawa State, emphasised the manageable nature of sickle cell disease with proper medical care. He stressed the importance of seeking medical attention during pain crises rather than relying on self-medication.

Reflecting the event’s spirit was Destiny Kobiro Eselemo himself, whose journey served as a testament to courage and perseverance in the face of adversity.

His story, documented by Mirror Me, resonated deeply with attendees, reinforcing that individuals with sickle cell can lead fulfilling lives given the proper support.