Sickle Cell Awareness Month: Everyday realities of living with the condition
By Trizer Lijondo, September 3, 2026Every September, Sickle Cell Awareness Month provides an opportunity to shine a light on a condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Beyond the medical discussions surrounding sickle cell disease, the condition can influence everyday experiences, from school and work to friendships, relationships and social activities.
For people living with sickle cell, ordinary routines can sometimes require extra planning. A busy day, a change in weather, dehydration or physical exhaustion may affect how someone feels, making it important to listen to the body and take necessary precautions.
As the world marks Sickle Cell Awareness Month, the focus is also on helping society understand the realities that are not always visible.
When everyday plans have to change
One of the challenges of living with sickle cell is that plans can change unexpectedly. Someone may have arranged to attend a social event, report to work or spend time with friends, only to experience symptoms that require them to rest or seek medical attention.
This can sometimes be misunderstood by people who do not know much about the condition. Missed events or periods of rest may be viewed as a lack of commitment or interest, when in reality, managing one’s health has to come first.
For children and young people, sickle cell can also affect school routines. Hospital appointments, periods of illness and the need to rest can sometimes interfere with classes and other activities.
Understanding instead of stigma
Awareness is important because misconceptions can make life more difficult for people living with sickle cell. Some may face insensitive questions, unnecessary assumptions or stigma because others do not understand the condition.
Support can begin with simple actions. Friends and relatives can listen without judgment, respect when someone needs to rest and avoid making assumptions about what the person can or cannot do.
Employers and schools can also contribute by creating environments where people can communicate their needs without fear of discrimination.
Sickle Cell Awareness Month is therefore not only about learning the name of the condition. It is also about recognising the people behind it and understanding that living with sickle cell does not define their ambitions, relationships or ability to lead fulfilling lives.
The goal should be to create a society where people living with sickle cell are met with understanding throughout the year, not only during September.