Shantel W., 5

Shantel, a 5-year-old girl, lives with her family, where her father is the sole breadwinner, working as a farmer and earning approximately KES 1,200 per month. Despite the difficult circumstances they face, Shantel remains a hopeful and resilient child, with a strong desire to recover and return to a normal life like other children her age. She has been diagnosed with sickle cell disease and was recently brought to the hospital by her mother while experiencing severe pain. The condition has significantly weakened her, and she now relies on a wheelchair for mobility. Following a comprehensive medical assessment, Shantel was admitted and started on appropriate treatment. For more than a week, she has appeared extremely weak and unwell, making it impossible for her to engage in any routine activities at home.

Shantel, who has sickle cell disease, recently began experiencing severe pain. She first got care at a nearby hospital where she was given painkillers, but her condition did not improve. Her mother then took her to Mechimeru Health Centre for further evaluation. Tests revealed that had Vaso occlusive crisis. She was admitted for treatment, received medication for the malaria and supplements to boost her blood levels. She is now recovering well and continues to take her daily medication.

Shantel was given medication and if it could have remain untreated sickle cell anemia could have leads to severe health complications, including pain crises, organ damage, stroke, and infections, potentially resulting in premature death. The abnormal, sickle-shaped red blood cells clog blood vessels, restricting oxygen delivery to vital organs and tissues, leading to these problems.