***Cautions against stigmatization
By Friday Idachaba, Lokoja
Rector of Kogi State Polytechnic, Prifesor. Salisu Usman Ogbo, has launched a sickle cell foundation, Shamsudeen Sickle Cell Foundation, with a call on well-meaning Nigerians to join the fight against stigmatization through creation of awareness.
The Rector while inaugurating the Foundation as part of activities to mark his 52nd Birthday anniversary called for aggressive awareness campaigns saying that stigmatization of carriers, was more injurious than the disease itself.
He said that the Vision of the Foundation is to ensure “A world where sickle cell warriors thrive, free from stigma, pains and limitations” with a mission to change sickle cell narratives and conditions positively through care, support, counselling and and medical advancement.
Prof Ogbo Usman said that the Foundation would offer services such as Medical Support, Counselling, Advocacy and Sensitization Empowerment, General Health Promotion, Scholarships, Nutrition and Dietitian Services and Career Services.
Others are Training and Retraining of health personnel and auxiliary staff Research (Advanced Medical & Demographic Research) Blood Donation support and Collaboration with Donor Agencies.
Narrating his ordeal as a sickle cell carrier, 14 years old Shamsudeen after whom the Foundation is named said living with sickle cell has been traumatic but expressed gratitude to his parents for their support and perseverance.
Shamsudeen who described himself as a proud sickle cell warrior said the first six months of his life were filled with happiness as he was a healthy, bouncing baby boy but the narrative changed six months after.
“However, everything changed at six months when I fell ill for the first time. My parents assumed it was a typical baby illness, but as the months went on, I continued to fall sick.
“When I turned one, my parents threw a grand birthday celebration. But after the party, I fell seriously ill, and my limbs swelled. I was taken to a well-known hospital in Anyigba, where I was diagnosed with sickle cell disease.
“My parents were devastated, facing the unknown challenges ahead. In response, my father made a vow to give his all to ensure I would have the best care possible”, he explained in an emotion-laden voice.
Shamsudeen said life has been a journey of challenges and resilience adding that his experiences had been shaped by several aspects of living with sickle cells with the crisis and vulnerability.
“The pain caused by sickle cell crises has been one of my most difficult struggles. I have endured excruciating pain, particularly in my chest, abdomen, and limbs.
“A type of crisis I faced, known as acute chest syndrome, even led to pneumonia, causing the most intense chest pain I have ever experienced.
“Vulnerability: Both extreme heat and cold bring additional health issues, such as protozoan diseases like malaria or respiratory infections, which can lead to crises”, he said.
Against all odds, Shamsudeen is determined to live his life to the fullest with God, his loving and capable parents as well as well-meaning Nigerians playing desired roles.
He said: “Education has captivated me, especially the subject of Biology, inspiring me to pursue a career in medicine. My ultimate goal is to specialize in Neurosurgery.” (Ends)