Hope Olaniyan

My name is Hope Olaniyan, and I am 16 years old. I was born with sickle cell SS, a rare blood disease that affects millions of people worldwide. Growing up with sickle cell hasn’t been easy, but it has taught me many valuable lessons about life and resilience.

For those who are unfamiliar with sickle cell SS, it is a genetic condition that affects the hemoglobin in red blood cells, causing them to form an abnormal shape that can block blood vessels and restrict blood flow. This can lead to pain, organ damage, and other complications that can affect daily life.

As a child, I had to learn how to manage my condition and take care of myself in ways that most kids don’t have to. This meant taking medication, getting regular check-ups, and being mindful of my activities to avoid triggering a sickle cell crisis.

One of the biggest challenges I faced growing up with sickle cell was the lack of understanding from others. Many people didn’t know what sickle cell was, and some even made fun of me for being “different.” This made me feel isolated and alone, but it also taught me the importance of advocacy and raising awareness about my condition.

Despite these challenges, I am grateful for the lessons that sickle cell has taught me. It has taught me to be resilient in the face of adversity, to appreciate life’s small moments, and to never give up hope.

To those who are also living with sickle cell or any chronic illness, I want you to know that you are not alone. It’s okay to ask for help, to take things one day at a time, and to seek support from those who care about you. You are strong, you are capable, and you are worthy of love and respect.

Thank you for taking the time to read about my experience with sickle cell SS. Together, we can raise awareness and make a difference for those who are living with chronic illnesses.”