Non- profit organization, Atawa-Akpodiete Foundation on Thursday marked this year’s World Sickle Cell Day with a health awareness campaign at the Central Hospital, Ughelli, Delta State, where it educated patients and members of the public on the prevention and management of sickle cell disorder.
The foundation also distributed gifts to students and nurses as part of its outreach programme aimed at promoting health education, encouraging community participation and supporting healthcare workers.
Speaking during the event, the Founder of the Atawa-Akpodiete Foundation, Professor Alexander Akpodiete, said the initiative was part of the organisation’s commitment to making a meaningful impact through awareness, education and empowerment at the grassroots.
According to him, “Sickle cell disorder remains a major public health challenge globally, and there is the need for sustained public enlightenment and collective efforts to reduce its burden on affected families.
“I urged Nigerians to embrace genotype screening and other preventive measures and the government healthcare professionals, civil society organisations and community leaders must work together to tackle the disease.
“The foundation would continue to champion health education, advocacy, empowerment programmes and community engagement to improve the wellbeing of vulnerable groups and promote healthier communities across the country.” He stated.
A sickle warrior, Bini Onome Jacqueline who narrated her ordeal disclosed that the stigma caused her marriage as she was declared half dead by her in-laws.
she held that that she was diagnosed with sickle cell disease at the age of six, and as a result, faced years of stigma and discrimination.
“At one point, I was told that i would not live beyond 20 years of age and was even described as, ‘half dead’ and that the stigma affected many aspects of her life and my marriage.
“But i refused to give up by following medical advice, taking my medications regularly, drinking plenty of water, eating healthy meals, and trusting God and that was how I am overcoming challenges.
“On March 15, 2026, I celebrated my 50 year birthday, milestone many once believed I would not attain.
“Today, I am proudly sharing her story to encourage others living with sickle cell disease and encouraged them that sickle cell is not a death sentence and it can never define a person’s future.
“Take your medications, stay hydrated, rest well, eat properly, and never lose hope. Do not allow anyone to limit your dreams neither predict your future.” She stated.
On her part, Mrs. Jovita Ogbon, a Genetic Counselor and coordinator of the Sickle Cell Clinic, expressed deep appreciation to the foundation that donated medical supplies and created awareness for people living with sickle cell disorder.
She described the Atawa -Akpodiete Foundation support as a huge success and a blessing to the sickle cell community.
“This awareness campaigns and medical advancements have changed the narrative around sickle cell disease.
“Many years ago, a diagnosis of sickle cell was often seen as a death sentence, but today, improved healthcare, new technologies, and proper treatment have given patients greater hope and a better quality of life.”
“The challenges faced by many patients, especially those from low- income families who struggle to afford essential drugs such as Hydroxyurea and Proguanil as well as laboratory tests and clinics registration fees.
She further appealed to foundation for continued support to help ensure that patients receive the care they needed.
