Posts by: Tito Oye

Previously, I’d never been in a room with more than five sickle cell warriors at a time, and those I’ve met have always been about the same age as me. ... Read more

October 27, 2021October 27, 2021

Finding Comfort Among Other Sickle Cell Patients

Sickle Cell Disease News Columns

Yesterday, I was reminded why it’s so beneficial to talk with other people in the sickle cell community. Producers from the YouTube channel Make It Common asked me to participate ... Read more

October 20, 2021October 20, 2021

You Should Be Your Biggest Advocate for Quality Care

Sickle Cell Disease News Columns

As a child growing up with sickle cell disease, constant trips to the hospital gave me the perception that the doctors and nurses in charge of my care were superhuman, ... Read more

October 6, 2021October 6, 2021

People Experience Sickle Cell Disease Differently

Sickle Cell Disease News Columns

Because sickle cell disease affects people differently, I’ve never met two people with the disease who have the same story. A quick Google search can introduce someone to the basics ... Read more

September 29, 2021September 29, 2021

Having a Common Cold Is Different in the Era of COVID-19

COVID-19 Columns, Sickle Cell Disease News Columns

In last week’s column, I wrote about ways to reduce the chance of catching a viral infection. I followed my own advice to the letter, yet I still managed to ... Read more

September 22, 2021September 22, 2021

As Colder Weather Approaches, I Must Be Mindful of Triggers

COVID-19 Columns, Sickle Cell Disease News Columns

Well, summer in the U.K. seemed to last all of 2 seconds. Now we are back to colder weather, shorter days, and higher heating bills. As the colder seasons arrive, ... Read more

September 15, 2021September 15, 2021

Sickle Cell Awareness Month Has Shown Me the Power of Community

Sickle Cell Disease News Columns

We are in the middle of Sickle Cell Awareness Month, and I can look back on my time as a sickle cell advocate and feel extremely proud about how far ... Read more

September 8, 2021September 8, 2021

A Lack of Awareness About Benefits Can Harm Sickle Cell Patients

Sickle Cell Disease News Columns

I recently posted on social media about a benefit that London residents with sickle cell disease may be entitled to, and its reception made me both happy and upset. As ... Read more

August 25, 2021August 25, 2021

I’m Happy I Haven’t Been Hospitalized in 2 Years

Sickle Cell Disease News Columns

In September, I celebrate two years since my last serious sickle cell crisis and hospitalization. I’m so happy to be in this position, because I don’t take my health for ... Read more

August 19, 2021August 19, 2021

The Moments From My Childhood When I Realized I Was Different

Sickle Cell Disease News Columns

Sickle cell disease is considered a rare condition. In the U.K., where I live, an estimated 15,000 people have it. In a population of over 66 million, it’s safe to ... Read more

August 11, 2021August 11, 2021

How to Stay Positive With a Chronic Illness

Sickle Cell Disease News Columns

Having sickle cell disease or other chronic conditions means having to overcome many hurdles. For example, receiving bad news about our health can cause us to be sad. While it’s ... Read more

August 4, 2021August 4, 2021

US Gymnast Simone Biles Offers an Important Lesson About Mental Health

COVID-19 Columns, Sickle Cell Disease News Columns

The Summer Olympics in Tokyo are in full swing, and even with the multiple hurdles that COVID-19 has created, I am happy the games are taking place. I’m not hugely ... Read more

July 28, 2021July 28, 2021

Sickle Cell Disease Won’t Stop Me From Succeeding

Sickle Cell Disease News Columns

Last week, I did something I never thought I would do. It’s something that people with sickle cell disease are strongly advised against doing. But it also has redefined my ... Read more

July 21, 2021July 21, 2021

Please Be Mindful When Speaking to Someone With a Chronic Illness

COVID-19 Columns, Sickle Cell Disease News Columns

When speaking to a person with a chronic illness, you might do and say things with the best of intentions, but sometimes it may not translate well. Following are some ... Read more

June 30, 2021June 30, 2021

The Ways I Made Hydration a Habit

COVID-19 Columns, Sickle Cell Disease News Columns

I can’t stress enough the importance of drinking water. Experts recommend that normal, healthy adults consume six to eight glasses of fluid daily. Staying hydrated allows the body to function more ... Read more