Exhibit courage and address ineffective areas of support

By Errol London
President, Guyana Sickle Cell and Thalassaemia Association

ONCE again many countries around the world are observing World Sickle Cell Day. This year the theme for the observance is, “Exhibit courage and address ineffective areas of support.” This is deemed to be most fitting. Persons affected by sickle cell disease and the ensuing challenges certainly need to be courageous. Notwithstanding the pain crisis and the plethora of possible complications which sicklers have to confront, probably one of the most unfortunate challenges is the consequence of the minuscule level of awareness in many sections of society.
Many individuals affected by the condition might have been called lazy, since they tire easily due to their chronic anaemic state or delinquent, due to repeated absenteeism from school or work. This indeed can be daunting. Dealing with the inherent condition is challenging in itself, but one can only imagine how much more so it can be, when the sickler is branded with all sorts of inappropriate labels due to the lack of awareness which still permeates our society. This certainly requires much courage on the part of the individual affected by sickle cell anaemia. Cognizance of the challenges faced by sicklers has served as an impetus for the Guyana Sickle Cell and Thalassemia Association (GSCTA) to work tirelessly at addressing ineffective areas of support.
The GSCTA has over the years been offering emotional and occasionally tangible support to its members. There is also a sustained public awareness focus which would have resulted in a number of schools and other entities being visited by the GSCTA. Renewed emphasis has been given to establishing meaningful collaboration between the relevant association and the Ministry of Public Health. It is hoped that this new level of collaboration will translate to the following:

* A survey to ascertain the prevalence of sickle cell in Guyana.
* The introduction of hydroxyurea as a treatment option
* Separate clinics for individuals suffering from SCD
* Greater consideration for sicklers when they visit the Emergency Room in a crisis
* The provision, at the Georgetown Public Hospital, of a practitioner trained in Haemoglobinopathies

As we observe World Sickle Cell Day, I trust that those affected by the condition and their loved ones will find the courage to embrace life. You are not alone. The GSCTA commits to continue working assiduously at providing social and other forms of support, even as we work with the pertinent government agencies at addressing ineffective areas of support.