The Unseen Struggle: Living with Sickle Cell Disease

Living with sickle cell disease (SCD) can be a constant battle. The pain, the fatigue, the hospital visits – it's a cycle that can feel endless. But it's not just the physical symptoms that make SCD challenging; it's the emotional toll, the mental strain, and the feeling of being misunderstood.

Folks often ask, 'How are you feeling today?' without realizing that our 'good days' are still filled with pain and medication. They don't see the exhaustion, the anxiety, and the fear that comes with living with a chronic illness.

But SCD isn't just about those of us living with the disease. It's also about those with sickle cell trait (SCT), who carry the gene that can pass it down to their children. If you have SCT, knowing your status and being aware of the risks is crucial. Having a partner who also has SCT increases the chances of passing SCD to your children.

Please, if you have SCT, take the necessary steps to protect your future family. Get informed, get tested, and find a partner who doesn't have the trait. Break the cycle, and let's work together to reduce the incidence of SCD.

If you are living with SCD, know that you are not alone, Michelle's House is a place of refuge. Your struggles are seen, your pain is acknowledged, and your strength is admired. Keep pushing forward, even when it feels impossible. And to those who support sickle cell warriors, thank you for being our rock, haven, and voice.