Stacy A., 11

Eleven-year-old Stacy is in sixth grade, and her favorite subject is mathematics. She aspires to be a teacher when she grows up. Stacy often helps with house chores and only goes to play after assisting her mother around the house. Stacy has been experiencing chest and abdominal pains for quite some time. Her mother initially sought the help of a community herbalist, but Stacy's health continued to deteriorate. She was eventually taken to a nearby hospital and later referred to Bama Hospital for further management.

Stacy has been experiencing chest and abdominal pains for quite some time. Her mother initially sought the help of a community herbalist, but Stacy's health continued to deteriorate. She was diagnosed with sickle cell disease, severe malaria and severe anaemia. Stacy was admitted for inpatient treatment and was giving round the clock care, with vital signs taken after every 6hrs and doctors and nurses working hard to give her the required medication for the three illnesses she was diagnosed with. She was discharged a few days later to proceed with treatment at home and come for a follow up check up after 1 week. She was healthy and strong when she came for her check up, and her mother was advised that she will have to bring Stacy to the hospital every month for check up and refill of her medication for sickle cell.

Sickle cell disease can lead to various complications, including severe pain crises, anemia, organ damage, and increased susceptibility to infections. Without proper management and treatment, it can result in life-threatening conditions such as stroke, acute chest syndrome, and organ failure.