Greencal Foundation in collaboration with MWAN Ebonyi State celebrates World Sickle Cell Day with donation at AEFUTHA

19th June 2024GREENCAL FOUNDATION

Banner of Greencal event titled Greencal Foundation in collaboration with MWAN Ebonyi State celebrates World Sickle Cell Day with donation at AEFUTHA

As part of the activities to mark World Sickle Cell Day 2024, the Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital Abakaliki (AEFUTHA) celebrated the resilience and strength of those living with Sickle Cell Disorder (SCD) on Wednesday, 19th June 2024, at the Cooperative Hall, AEFUTHA 1. The event, which began at 9:30 am, was filled with inspiring talks, educational sessions, and expressions of support for individuals living with SCD.

The program started with a warm welcome and introduction of dignitaries, followed by an opening prayer. The Coordinator of the Sickle Cell Center gave the opening remarks, and the Chief Medical Director (CMD) also addressed the audience. The highlight of the event included a series of enlightening talks: Professor Ngozi Ugwu presented on "SCD: What is it All About?" while Dr. Obinna Chukwu emphasized the "Importance of Early Screening for SCD." Additionally, Dr. Chuks Akulue spoke on "Health Maintenance in SCD."

The event was further enriched by the cutting of a "Warrior's Cake," symbolizing the strength and perseverance of individuals living with SCD. Appreciation was extended to the Greencal Foundation, through its founder, Adum Obinna, who generously made a donation to support the Sickle Cell Center. The event concluded with refreshments, a vote of thanks, and a closing prayer, leaving everyone inspired and informed about SCD.

Sickle Cell Disorder (SCD) is the most common genetic blood condition in Africa, with Nigeria at its epicenter, housing about 4-6 million people living with the disease. Approximately 1 in every 4 Nigerians carries a sickle cell trait. SCD is an inherited blood disorder marked by defective hemoglobin (Hb), which affects the red blood cells' ability to carry oxygen efficiently. It is inherited when both parents carry the sickle cell trait, while a single inheritance results in the sickle cell trait itself.

One of the greatest challenges in managing SCD is the lack of accurate information, leading to numerous myths and misconceptions. Many adolescents transitioning to adulthood lack sufficient knowledge to manage their health effectively. Adult doctors may also be unfamiliar with treating SCD-related health complications. By debunking these myths, we can better support individuals living with SCD.

Sickle cell is not contagious nor a result of poor lifestyle choices. It is a genetic disorder passed down from parents.
Sickle cell does not only impact people of African descent. While it predominantly affects those of African ancestry, it can occur in any ethnicity, depending on the parents' SCD status.
People with SCD are not lazy. The fatigue or tiredness they experience is a symptom of the disease, not a reflection of their character.
Not all SCD patients are opioid drug seekers. Opioids are often prescribed to manage severe pain, but this does not imply dependency or misuse.
People with SCD are not immune to malaria. They still need preventive measures and treatment against malaria, contrary to popular belief.
Babies with SCD can and do survive to adulthood. Advances in medical care have significantly improved survival rates.
The only cure for SCD is a bone marrow transplant. However, this is rare and only done when a matched donor is available.
The SS trait is not a mild form of SCD. It involves inheriting only one abnormal Hb gene and typically presents no symptoms.

Banner of event. Adum Obinna, founder of Greencal, with other volunteers AEFUTHA in celebration of world sickle cell day.

The complications of SCD are many and varied, stemming from the blockage of blood flow caused by sickled cells. These include chronic severe pain (crises), vision problems, anemia, lung tissue damage, frequent infections, kidney disease, stroke, fatigue, and more. Despite these challenges, events like those hosted by AEFUTHA and supported by organizations such as the Greencal Foundation help raise awareness, dispel myths, and foster a supportive community.

Greencal Foundation, led by its founder Adum Obinna, is committed to supporting initiatives that promote awareness and provide assistance to those affected by SCD. Their donation to the Sickle Cell Center is a testament to their dedication to this cause, and we encourage others to join in this effort to support those living with Sickle Cell Disorder.

Greencal Foundation in collaboration with MWAN Ebonyi State celebrates World Sickle Cell Day with donation at AEFUTHA

CONTACT INFO

OUR SERVICES