My Upside View of Sickle Cell Anemia

To understand their daughter’s problem, my parents, ALHAMDULILAH, were determined to find the issue. They learned that I, Mujahidah¹, had the SS gene, meaning I was a sickle cell warrior. To protect my health, they had to prevent mosquito bites and exposure to harsh weather, whether cold, hot, or harmattan. The doctors also advised regular hospital routines and check-ups to ensure a long and healthy life. The hospital then became a second home for me and my family.

My name is Ruqaiyyah Aliyu². I was diagnosed with sickle cell anemia at eight months old, and my first crisis began at one year and three months. This marked the beginning of my anemic episodes. As a baby, I received about six units of blood in addition to the two pints I had. This has been my life ever since, and now, at 32, I still live with sickle cell anemia.

There were many childhood moments when I couldn’t play like other children. I stayed indoors, tucked under blankets, struggling with joint pain or a swollen spleen. The weather would change, and so would my body. I was often rushed to the hospital, and these experiences became as normal as birthdays and holidays.

At 15, I collapsed from severe anemia. I was rushed to the emergency unit, and again, blood was transfused. Another episode occurred when I was dehydrated and stressed out. Mama came home to find me restless; I was suffering from cholera. I was rushed to the hospital and stayed there for two days.

The hospital became a safe haven, a familiar place filled with the scent of disinfectant and the sound of beeping monitors. Despite the constant struggle, I went to school, sat for my Junior Secondary School Certificate Examination, and excelled. Later, I was offered a place in mass communication under the College of Arts and Humanities after I returned to school to re-sit the West African Examination Council examination.

I wrote the exam and passed, despite being sick during the examination period. I was admitted into the National Diploma programme in Mass Communication and managed to complete my education. Afterward, I applied for the Higher National Diploma (HND), and I was accepted. I completed my HND in 2019.

Now, I am a freelance journalist, a writer, and I manage a journal on my social media platform advocating for sickle cell awareness and Islamic dawaah. I have learned that sickle cell is not a death sentence. It can be managed with the right care, nutrition, medications, and most importantly, support.

Despite all the trials and tribulations, I graduated from school. Life hasn’t been easy; it has been a hell of a ride, but I have accomplished what I set my mind to despite the hurdles. I consider these hurdles as steppingstones and continue to move forward.

This is my story, and I am proud of how far I have come. I hope my journey gives someone else the courage to keep going. You are not alone.

¹ Mujahidah – an innocent girl. ² Ruqaiyyah Aliyu – a relentless sickle cell warrior who has battled fiercely, continues to fight, and now fights for others. ³ 'Sickle cell warrior' – a positive term for people living with sickle cell anemia, in recognition of their resilience.