Is The Sickle Cell Disease New?

No, it is not. It is as old as the African race itself. It is very common in Africa but not common in developed countries.
The disease was not known in Africa until about 60 years ago. What people commonly referred to as Abiku in Yoruba land (born-to-die) or partly the Ogbanje syndrome in Igbo land were basically due to ignorance of the disease. As at now, the awareness is coming up and with improvement n our Medicare sevices, lots of sicklers do survive infancy and through childhood to adulthood.

YOU ARE NOT DIFFERENT FROM EVERY OTHER PERSON, SO YOU CAN DO ALL THINGS THROUGH CHRIST WHO STRENGTHENS YOU. IF YOU ARE A SICKLER, ARISE AND BEGIN TO SHINE AND PROSPER. FULFILL YOUR DESTINY AND GOD'S PURPOSE FOR YOUR LIFE. SPREAD THE GOOD NEWS THAT GOD LOVES YOU AND EVERY OTHER SICKLER IS WONDERFULLY AND BEAUTIFULLY CREATED.

So What Next?

1. Talk to people about sickle cell, how it is inherited and managed.
2. Be tested for the trait and make sure your loved ones are tested too.
3. Potential parents should go for counselling.
4. Support research and education to solve the sickle cell problem.
5. A sickler/carrier of the trait shouldavoid marriage with individuals that are sicklers or carriers of sickle cell traits.

How Can I Get Tested For Sickle Cell Disease Or Traits?

You would be tested at the laboratory of an approved clinic or hospital. You can also contact Temitayo Awosika Help Foundation (TAHF) for formal advice and counselling.

As A Sickler, Do I Have A Problem?

No. You are not different from any other person created by God Almighty. Therefore you can live a normal life. All you need to do is to understand how to manage yourself, making the best of every situation and you will live long. Do not believe you will die; always believe that you will live the full length of your days.