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There are many misconceptions about sickle cell. Like it’s contagious. Like people with sickle cell are drug seekers. Like the only effect is pain. Because of these widespread beliefs, people with this genetic blood disorder may feel misunderstood, even isolated. Eliminating the stigmas surrounding sickle cell begins when we listen, learn, and share.
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Sickle cell is an inherited condition where healthy,
round red blood cells become sickled, or banana-
shaped. These rigid crescents are not able to get
through small blood vessels and break down easily. Red blood cells are responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body. The sickling process begins with hemoglobin, the part of the red blood cell that carries oxygen. When cell sickle, they can break down and there are fewer red blood cells to carry oxygen to all parts of the body. This can have a serious, lifelong impact on your tissues, organs and bones.
Having sickle cell means living with it every moment of every day. It’s managing symptoms and chronic pain. It’s dealing with hurtful stereotypes. And then, it’s reaching your goals anyway.
Having sickle cell means living with it every moment of every day. It’s managing symptoms and chronic pain. It’s dealing with hurtful stereotypes. And then, it’s reaching your goals anyway.