Introduction

Initially, I wrote the information contained here with the full intention of publishing it as a book. Much time has passed since I completed that manuscript, and my quest to publish has had its ups and downs. Lately, however, I've felt an urgent need to get my words out to the public sooner rather than later. Consequently, I have decided to publish my writings here.

The sections that would have been chapters in a book are numbered 1-19 in the Directory of Subjects. As the blog grows, additional subjects will appear below the numbered sections in the Directory.

To make it a bit easier to select specific posts on a particular subject, I have included a Table of Contents. For example, if you click on "Contents of Topic 1," you will be given a list of every post under the "Know Your Illness" subject. Simply choose the post that interests you, and you will be taken to that post, and only that post.

I have created this blog for the many young men and young women who heroically, and often silently, endure the hardships that come with Sickle Cell Anemia. I share with you many of the things I believe every young person living with Sickle Cell should know and do in order to live a long and happy life. I will also share my current experiences and struggles with Sickle cell, what I’ve learned from them, and how I cope with the challenges of this illness. It’s my prayer that the words contained on these posts will help you:

1)    Manage your illness better,
2)    Gain an increased understanding of your disease,
3)    Live a healthier life,
4)    See the all the opportunities available to you in the world,
5)    Obtain greater hope and courage to brave the trials you face,
6)    Always carry the sincere belief that life truly is worth living.

I understand, as do many others living with a chronic illness, how difficult it can be to feel joy while living with Sickle Cell Disease. Let me assure you that finding happiness and peace in life in spite of the disease is more than possible. It’s 100% doable!

I'm my prayer this blog with help others do just that.