I have sickle cell disease, an inherited disorder of the red blood cells. It is a constant struggle each and every day, as I never know if I will be hit with a sudden pain, or when the next pain episode will hit. The pain is beyond anything I have ever experienced, it is the type of pain that takes my breath away and leaves me feeling utterly exhausted.
At times I feel quite isolated, like no one understands the true extent of what I am going through. A deep sadness has crept in, as I grieve the life I could have had without this condition. However, I recognize that there are many who are in much worse positions than me, and I strive to constantly keep my head held high, hold on to hope and make the most of every day.
No one should ever have to go through what I, and those like me, experience, but I know that with the right support, there is still a life to be lived, and that gives me hope.