When the Weather Tests a Sickle Cell Warrior

Hello Hive

I woke up this morning feeling completely drained, like someone who had worked all night without rest. I couldn’t even drag myself out of bed. It took every ounce of strength to get to the washroom to pee and then crawl back under the covers. This was around 7:00 a.m., Nigerian time.

As I climbed back into bed, the first thought that crossed my mind was about sickle cell warriors who work in the 9-to-5 space. All I could whisper to myself was, “Thank God.”

Lying there, battling the morning's low energy, I began to reminisce about my time in that 9-to-5 environment, the challenges I faced, and how I eventually got laid off.

It wasn’t because I lacked the skills or capacity to do the job. No, I had what it took and more. But living with a chronic blood condition meant dealing with complications that left me in constant pain, robbed me of sleep, and drained me mentally and physically.

I still recall my former boss’s parting words:

“You are wonderful, with a splendid character. But business is business. I pray God gives you something far better and strengthens you.”

Hmmm, he was right, business is business, and I wasn't productive enough to yield the required outcome or results at the pace they wanted, even though I had more than it took.

Then my thoughts wandered to how many sickle cell warriors might be getting similar messages this season. This time of year can be especially tough for us.

The rainy, cold weather is a major trigger for pain crises. Cold temperatures cause blood vessels to narrow, further reducing blood flow that is already compromised because of the sickled shape of our red blood cells. This increases the risk of blockages, pain episodes, fatigue, and exhaustion.

Many of us are also more prone to infections, flu, and colds during this period, which can mean more hospital visits and mornings like the one I had today.

But there are ways warriors can support themselves during this season:

Stay consciously hydrated. Emphasis on consciously, because in cold weather, thirst cues are weaker.

Layer up. Wear warm, covered clothing to keep the cold out.

Stick to your routine medications.

Rest well and avoid overexertion.

Listen to your body.

And to my Hive family, if you have more tips to help warriors this season, please share them in the comment section.

Second picture sourced from Google