Sickle Cell Warriors in Kakamega County have revealed their daily pain, stigma and neglect they undergo in the society, calling for more health and social support.
Speaking during World Sickle Cell Day at Kakamega General Hospital, the Warriors asked both the National and County government to set aside funds for them, set up dedicated care centres and create more public awareness to end stigma.
They lamented that sickle cell drugs are too expensive, making it challenging to acquire them.
“Sometimes we need blood transfusions when one lacks enough blood in the body,” said Laura Mukoya, a 30-year-old warrior and teacher by profession.
A doctor at the Kakamega sickle cell clinic, Dr Neema Bukabi, said many sickle cell patients suffer in silence due to limited access to specialised care, lack of awareness and stigma associated with the disease.
She noted that there is a need for the deployment of more health experts and the establishment of sickle cell centres in rural areas, stressing that sickle cell survivors need regular medical assistance.
Bukabi also encouraged spouses to undergo medical screening before having a family to know their general status, including the sickle cell trait percentage, to avoid passing down pain and suffering to their offspring.
Joan Simuli, a 31-year-old sickle cell warrior, said maintaining romantic relationships is also a challenge due to difficulties in disclosing their condition to their partners.
“As a sickle cell warrior, you cannot marry a fellow sickle cell partner. When you have a partner and you disclose your condition, most of them are likely to end the relationship, as they do not understand,” she disclosed.
She called for more awareness, stressing that with the right medication and proper diet, sickle cell patients can live peacefully like any other person.
By Philip Jonathan and Felecky Muthami
