The Save Cell Foundation, a non-governmental organization, has urged the Federal Government to establish specialized hospitals in each of the 36 states to cater exclusively to individuals with sickle cell disease.
Mrs. Oluwabusayomi Soretire, the founder of the NGO, made this plea in Abeokuta, the capital of Ogun State, during a walk event called ‘First Red Umbrella Walk and Warriors Party’ organized by Save Cell Foundation to commemorate the 2024 World Sickle Cell Day.
She highlighted that the purpose of the walk was to bring hope to sickle cell patients and their families while drawing global attention to their challenges. Soretire stressed the need for the government to devise an effective healthcare policy to ensure quality healthcare for these individuals.
According to Oluwabusayomi, the establishment of specialized hospitals by the government would greatly alleviate the suffering sickle cell patients endure when seeking medical care in regular healthcare facilities.
She also urged authorities at all levels to create employment opportunities for individuals with sickle cell disease to minimize their hardships and eradicate discrimination.
In honor of the 2024 World Sickle Cell Day, the Save Cell Foundation plans to distribute food items and health kits to over 100 warriors battling sickle cell disorder. Soretire emphasized that the disease should not be viewed as a death sentence, urging those living with the condition to persist and not lose hope.
She advised parents of sickle cell warriors to refrain from stigmatizing or isolating them, advocating instead for love, care, and support to help them lead fulfilling lives and achieve their aspirations.
Atinuke Alabi, a warrior fighting against sickle cell disorder, appealed to the Federal Government to provide free medication for individuals living with sickle cell, pointing out that many warriors have perished due to the prohibitive costs of their medications.
She proposed that just as individuals living with HIV receive free drugs, sickle cell warriors should also benefit from such a program to alleviate their challenges and enhance their healthcare provision.
