How Have You Contributed to Sickle Cell Disease Month?

Since my exit from the hospital last month, I have been trying to recuperate and fully recover. Well to say the least, I have had a few set backs, but "Praise be to God", I keep moving forward. Right after Labor Day, (a wonderful evening listening to a live band overlooking the community that puts on this yearly gathering), I went into a crisis. Upon visiting my doctor, I decided to manage the pain at home. We determined I would be able to know the warning signs of shortness of breath, fever, and uncontrollable pain which would be signs that I needed immediate attention. I am now recovering from this setback.

For those of us who have Sickle Cell Disease, the question is, "what are we doing this month which recognizes our Disease?" Are we giving time, talent or service to the recognition of SCD?Are we giving continued financial support toward the cure we all cry for during a crisis? Are we advocating or are we sitting back waiting for those who are invested in finding a cure to do something. I advance this argument because I want to know whether we who are affected with SCD intensely advocate for a cure like others such as Muscular Dystrophy, Cystic Fibrosis, etc. Are we actively seeking the funding for programs that could help Sickle Cell Foundations across America? Is there more we can do? Do we lobby for our disease? If the answer is NO then we need to turn that answer into YES!

Many of you probably ask what are you doing? I am participating on a Sickle Cell Forum at Morehouse College. The forum includes the Sickle Cell Foundation of GA, The Red Cross, and others. I will follow up with a blog after the forum. Go out and contribute if you are able!