Pfizer Confirms Oxbryta® Will Not Return to the U.S. Market: What the Sickle Cell Community Needs to Know
The Jasmine Sickle Cell Warriors Foundation remains committed to keeping our community informed about important developments that affect individuals and families living with sickle cell disease.
Pfizer has announced that Oxbryta® (voxelotor) will not return to the U.S. market following extensive discussions with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Over the past two years, Pfizer conducted a comprehensive review of data from clinical trials, real-world patient registries, and post-marketing safety and effectiveness studies. The company submitted these findings to the FDA and continued discussions in hopes of identifying a path to make the medication available again.
After reviewing the available evidence, the FDA determined that there is no viable path for Oxbryta to return to the United States.
This news is understandably disappointing for many sickle cell warriors, caregivers, healthcare providers, and advocates. Oxbryta represented an important treatment option for many individuals living with sickle cell disease, and its absence highlights the continued need for safe and effective therapies.
Despite this decision, Pfizer has reaffirmed its commitment to the sickle cell community. The company announced that it will continue investing in sickle cell research, including the ongoing development of osivelotor, while working toward future treatment options for people living with the disease.
Pfizer also stated that it will continue sharing research findings from the Oxbryta program as they become available. This includes publications in medical journals as well as plain-language summaries designed to help patients, caregivers, and community organizations better understand the research. The knowledge gained from the Oxbryta program is expected to contribute to future advancements in sickle cell treatment and innovation.
At the Jasmine Sickle Cell Warriors Foundation, we know that updates like these can be difficult to hear. We encourage our community to continue speaking with their healthcare providers about available treatment options and to stay informed as new therapies continue to be researched and developed.
We remain hopeful that continued scientific innovation will lead to additional treatments that improve the quality of life for sickle cell warriors around the world.
Read More
To read Pfizer's official public statement regarding Oxbryta and learn more about this announcement, visit Oxbryta.com, where visitors will be directed to Pfizer's latest information and updates.
As always, the Jasmine Sickle Cell Warriors Foundation will continue sharing important news, advocacy updates, research developments, and resources to help empower and strengthen the sickle cell community.
Jasmine Sickle Cell Warriors Foundation Announces New Partnership with Transformation Community Church
The Jasmine Sickle Cell Warriors Foundation, Inc. is excited to announce a new partnership with Transformation Community Church, marking another important milestone in our mission to empower and strengthen the sickle cell community through belief and investment.
As our Foundation continues to grow, we recognize that lasting change happens when organizations come together with a shared purpose. This partnership represents more than a collaboration—it represents a commitment to expanding our reach, increasing awareness of sickle cell disease, and serving more individuals and families throughout our communities.
Since our founding in 2016, the Jasmine Sickle Cell Warriors Foundation has worked to provide education, advocacy, community engagement, and support for those affected by sickle cell disease. As we celebrate our 10th anniversary, we remain focused on building relationships that help us extend that mission even further.
Through this partnership, we look forward to creating new opportunities to connect with the community, host impactful events, provide educational resources, and introduce more individuals and families to the services and support available through the Foundation.
One of the initiatives that will continue to grow through this expanded outreach is the Warrior Hub. The Warrior Hub serves as a central point for connecting sickle cell warriors, caregivers, healthcare professionals, and community members with valuable resources, educational opportunities, advocacy efforts, and Foundation programs. As awareness grows, so does our ability to reach those who may not know that support is available.
We believe every partnership has the potential to open new doors. By working together, we can reach more communities, educate more families, and continue building a stronger support system for individuals living with sickle cell disease.
“This partnership reflects our vision for the future,” said Ja’Quan R. Phillips, Founder and Executive Director of the Jasmine Sickle Cell Warriors Foundation, Inc. “As we continue to grow the Warrior Hub and expand our outreach, we’re committed to meeting people where they are, building meaningful relationships, and ensuring that no warrior or family feels alone in their journey.”
This announcement is just the beginning. Together, the Jasmine Sickle Cell Warriors Foundation and Transformation Community Church look forward to making a meaningful impact through service, compassion, and a shared commitment to the community.
We invite everyone to follow our journey as we continue expanding the Warrior Hub, developing new community initiatives, and creating opportunities to strengthen and empower the sickle cell community for years to come.
Together, we are stronger. Together, we can make a difference.
A Decade of Hope: Why This Year's Sickle Cell Walk Will Be Our Most Special Yet
For the past 10 years, the Jasmine Sickle Cell Warriors Foundation has remained committed to one mission: empowering and strengthening the sickle cell community through belief and investment. What started as a dream to honor the life and legacy of Jasmine Rayvon Phillips has grown into a movement that has impacted hundreds of families across North Carolina.
This year is different.
This year is more than another walk.
This year is a celebration of 10 years of service, advocacy, education, and hope.
On Saturday, September 12, 2026, we invite our community to join us for the 10th Annual Sickle Cell Walk & Community Block Party—our biggest event ever. Every step taken will honor those we have lost, celebrate the warriors who continue to fight every day, and raise awareness for a disease that impacts thousands of families.
A Milestone Worth Celebrating
Reaching 10 years is something we never take for granted. Throughout the past decade, we've been blessed to provide educational programs, emergency support, community events, scholarships, advocacy efforts, and life-changing partnerships that continue to make a real difference.
This year's walk is our opportunity to celebrate every volunteer, donor, sponsor, supporter, warrior, caregiver, and family member who has been part of this incredible journey.
A Special Guest You Won't Want to Miss
We're excited to welcome Kier "Junior" Spates from the nationally syndicated Steve Harvey Morning Show as our special guest for this year's celebration.
His passion for community and ability to inspire others will help make this year's event unforgettable. We are honored to have him join us as we celebrate this incredible milestone together.
More Than Just a Walk
This year's event is designed for the entire community.
After the walk, attendees can enjoy our exciting Community Block Party, featuring:
Community vendors
Family-friendly activities
Giveaways
Music and entertainment
Delicious food
Health and wellness resources
Special surprises throughout the day
We'll also continue our tradition of giving back through another community giveaway, because serving others has always been at the heart of everything we do.
Help Us Make History
As we celebrate our 10th anniversary, our goal isn't simply to host another successful event.
Our goal is to make this the largest Sickle Cell Walk in the history of our organization.
We're inviting churches, businesses, schools, civic organizations, classic car clubs, motorcycle clubs, step teams, families, healthcare organizations, and community leaders to stand with us in support of individuals living with sickle cell disease.
Together, we can show every warrior that they are seen, supported, and never alone.
Register Today
Whether you're walking in honor of a loved one, supporting a friend, or simply looking to make a difference, we invite you to be part of this historic celebration.
Register today, invite your family and friends, and help us spread the word throughout our communities.
Every registration helps us continue providing life-changing programs and resources for sickle cell warriors and their families.
Thank You for 10 Incredible Years
Ten years ago, this organization was built on faith, love, and the belief that every warrior deserves hope.
Today, because of your support, that dream has become a lasting legacy.
As we celebrate this milestone, we remain committed to expanding our impact, reaching more families, and creating even greater opportunities for the sickle cell community.
Thank you for believing in our mission.
Thank you for walking beside us.
And thank you for helping us write the next chapter of the Jasmine Sickle Cell Warriors Foundation.
We'll see you on September 12 as we celebrate 10 years of impact—one step at a time.
Celebrating 10 Years of Impact
This year marks a historic milestone for the Jasmine Sickle Cell Warriors Foundation Inc. On December 12, 2026, we will proudly celebrate 10 years of service to the sickle cell community.
What began in 2016 as a vision inspired by the life and legacy of Jasmine Rayvon Phillips has grown into an organization dedicated to providing hope, advocacy, education, and support to individuals and families affected by sickle cell disease. Over the past decade, we have built meaningful partnerships, launched impactful programs, supported countless warriors and caregivers, and worked tirelessly to strengthen our communities through compassion, service, and action.
Reaching this 10-year milestone is more than an anniversary—it's a celebration of resilience, perseverance, and purpose. It reflects the unwavering commitment of our volunteers, donors, sponsors, partners, and supporters who have stood beside us every step of the way. Because of you, we've been able to make a lasting difference in the lives of so many families.
As we celebrate this incredible achievement, we're also embracing an exciting new chapter. Throughout this milestone year, you'll see the launch of our new logo, refreshed brand identity, redesigned website, and new initiatives that reflect our vision for the future while staying true to the mission that has guided us since day one.
To everyone who has believed in our mission, supported our events, volunteered your time, donated, or shared our story—thank you. This milestone belongs to all of us.
The first 10 years were about building a foundation of hope.
The next 10 years will be about expanding our impact, reaching more families, and continuing to empower and strengthen the sickle cell community through belief and investment.
We invite you to celebrate this historic milestone with us as we honor our past, celebrate our present, and build an even brighter future together.
A New Chapter: JSCWF & Amazon Partner to Give Back Bigger Than Ever
We are beyond excited to share some incredible news with you.
The Jasmine Sickle Cell Warriors Foundation Inc. is officially partnering with Amazon!
This partnership isn’t just about growth, it’s about gratitude. For the past 8 years, the community has supported us, stood by us, and walked with us in this journey to honor Jasmine’s legacy and serve those living with Sickle Cell Disease.
Now, it’s our turn to give back in an even bigger way.
With Amazon’s support, we’ll be able to expand on the work of The Warrior Hub brand and provide more resources directly to the communities that have poured into us.
Here’s What This Means:
We’ll now be able to distribute household essentials like cleaning supplies, toiletries, paper products, and much more essentials to families who need them most.
We’ll grow our reach and send wellness support, nutrition support, and educational materials into more homes than ever before.
We’ll be able to host more community events focused on awareness, wellness, and empowerment, bringing people together and bringing hope.
At the core of everything we do is our foundation’s mission:
“Empower and strengthen the sickle cell community through belief and investment.”
And with Amazon’s help, we’re putting that mission into action in a powerful, practical way, meeting real needs, in real time.
We’re so thankful for this new partnership and even more thankful for YOU, our supporters, families, and warriors who have stood by us for nearly a decade. This new chapter is for you.
With love, purpose, and excitement for what’s ahead,
Ja’Quan R. Phillips
Founder, Jasmine Sickle Cell Warriors Foundation Inc
Pfizer Voluntarily Withdraws All Lots of Sickle Cell Disease Treatment OXBRYTA® (voxelotor) From Worldwide Markets
NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Pfizer Inc. (NYSE: PFE) announced today that it is voluntarily withdrawing all lots of OXBRYTA ®(voxelotor) for the treatment of sickle cell disease (SCD) at this time, in all markets where it is approved. Pfizer is also discontinuing all active voxelotor clinical trials and expanded access programs worldwide.
Pfizer's decision is based on the totality of clinical data that now indicates the overall benefit of OXBRYTA no longer outweighs the risk in the approved sickle cell patient population. The data suggest an imbalance in vaso-occlusive crises and fatal events which require further assessment. Pfizer has notified regulatory authorities about these findings and its decision to voluntarily withdraw OXBRYTA from the market and discontinue distribution and clinical studies while further reviewing the available data and investigating the findings.
“The safety and well-being of patients is of the utmost importance to Pfizer, and we believe this action is in the best interest of patients,” said Aida Habtezion, Chief Medical Officer and Head of Worldwide Medical and Safety at Pfizer. “Our primary concern is for patients who suffer from SCD, which remains a very serious and difficult-to-treat disease with limited treatment options. We advise patients to contact their physicians to discuss alternative treatment while we continue to investigate the findings from our review of the data.”….. to read more about Pfizer’s press release click the link below..
https://www.pfizer.com/print/pdf/node/560973
A Heartfelt Thank You to Mayor Sandy Roberson for Recognizing Sickle Cell Awareness Month
In a world where unity and support make all the difference, it is with immense gratitude and pride that we extend our heartfelt thanks to Mayor Sandy Roberson for his unwavering commitment to recognizing Sickle Cell Awareness Month in the City of Rocky Mount, NC. The tireless efforts of our founder, Ja’Quan R. Phillips, and the entire Jasmine Sickle Cell Warriors Foundation Inc., have been met with open arms by Mayor Roberson, making this proclamation a significant milestone in our ongoing mission. A Shared Vision: Mayor Sandy Roberson's recognition of Sickle Cell Awareness Month is more than just a proclamation; it's a testament to his dedication to our community's well-being. Sickle Cell Disease affects countless lives, and with this recognition, Mayor Roberson has shone a spotlight on the importance of awareness, education, and support for those facing this challenging condition.
At the heart of any meaningful change lies collaboration, and Mayor Sandy Roberson has exemplified this principle. By acknowledging Sickle Cell Awareness Month, he has opened the doors for a broader conversation within our community. It's a call to action, a reminder that together, we can make a difference in the lives of those affected by Sickle Cell Disease. The Jasmine Sickle Cell Warriors Foundation Inc. extends its deepest appreciation to Mayor Roberson for embracing our cause and joining hands with us in this vital endeavor.
As we reflect on this significant milestone, we are inspired and motivated to continue our work with renewed vigor. We are excited about the possibilities that lie ahead, as we work together with Mayor Sandy Roberson and the City of Rocky Mount, NC, to create a more supportive, understanding, and informed community. Conclusion: In extending our gratitude, we also extend our commitment. Together, with leaders like Mayor Sandy Roberson, we can make a lasting impact on the lives of those affected by Sickle Cell Disease. We look forward to a future where awareness and support are not just recognized but deeply ingrained in our community's fabric. Thank you, Mayor Roberson, for your dedication, compassion, and leadership in recognizing Sickle Cell Awareness Month. Your support is a beacon of hope, and we are excited about the positive change it will bring to Rocky Mount, NC, and beyond.
Embracing Relaxation: A Guide for Sickle Cell Warriors on National Relaxation Day
National Relaxation Day is a perfect opportunity for individuals, particularly Sickle Cell Warriors, to prioritize self-care and discover the art of relaxation. Living with Sickle Cell Disease comes with unique challenges, making relaxation an essential tool for managing health and well-being. In this blog post, we'll explore why relaxation matters for Sickle Cell Warriors and provide practical tips to make the most of this day and incorporate relaxation into daily life.
Understanding the Importance of Relaxation for Sickle Cell Warriors:
Living with Sickle Cell Disease often entails managing pain, fatigue, and other symptoms. Chronic stress can exacerbate these challenges, potentially triggering painful episodes and crises. Relaxation techniques can help reduce stress, enhance circulation, and promote overall well-being.
1. Mindful Breathing Techniques:
Mindful breathing is a powerful relaxation tool that Sickle Cell Warriors can integrate into their daily routine. By focusing on deep, intentional breaths, individuals can calm the mind and reduce stress. Find a quiet space, sit comfortably, close your eyes, and take slow, deep breaths. Inhale for a count of four, hold for four and exhale for four. Repeat this process for a few minutes each day to experience its benefits.
2. Gentle Movement and Stretching:
Engaging in gentle movement and stretching exercises can alleviate muscle tension, improve flexibility, and enhance blood circulation. Incorporate activities like yoga, Tai Chi, or simple stretches into your routine. Choose exercises that suit your comfort level and adapt them to your unique needs.
3. Creating a Relaxation Sanctuary:
Designate a space in your home as a relaxation sanctuary. Fill it with soothing elements such as comfortable cushions, calming colors, and soft lighting. Spend time in this space to unwind, meditate, or simply escape from the daily hustle.
4. Mindfulness Meditation:
Mindfulness meditation involves focusing on the present moment without judgment. It can help Sickle Cell Warriors manage stress, reduce anxiety, and increase overall resilience. Find a quiet spot, sit or lie down comfortably, and direct your attention to your breath or a specific sensation. Allow any thoughts to come and go without clinging to them.
5. Engaging in Creative Pursuits:
Engaging in creative activities like painting, writing, or playing a musical instrument can be therapeutic and relaxing. These outlets offer an opportunity to express emotions and redirect focus away from pain or discomfort.
6. Connecting with Nature:
Spending time in nature can have a rejuvenating effect on the mind and body. Whether it's a short walk in the park or simply sitting outdoors, immersing yourself in natural surroundings can provide a refreshing break from daily routines.
On National Relaxation Day and every day, Sickle Cell Warriors deserve moments of tranquility and self-care. Prioritizing relaxation is not only a means of managing Sickle Cell Disease but also a way to foster overall well-being. By incorporating mindful practices, gentle movements, and creative outlets into daily routines, Sickle Cell Warriors can embrace relaxation as a powerful tool in their journey toward a healthier, more fulfilling life. Remember, self-care is an ongoing process, so continue to explore and personalize relaxation techniques that resonate with you.
Spreading Hope and Saving Lives: A Successful Blood Drive with the American Red Cross and The Jasmine Sickle Cell Warriors Foundation Inc.
A powerful collaboration took place between two organizations dedicated to making a positive impact on their community. The American Red Cross and The Jasmine Sickle Cell Warriors Foundation Inc. joined forces to hold a life-changing blood drive event that not only raised awareness about the importance of blood donation but also brought hope to those battling sickle cell disease.
The event, held at the heart of our town, was met with an overwhelming response from community members and volunteers alike. The American Red Cross, with its unwavering commitment to ensuring a steady and safe blood supply, set up its mobile donation unit, ready to welcome donors from all walks of life.
The Jasmine Sickle Cell Warriors Foundation Inc., driven by their heartfelt mission to empower and support those living with sickle cell disease, organized the event to create awareness about the needs of individuals fighting this challenging condition. The blood drive was not only a platform for raising awareness about sickle cell but also an opportunity to encourage individuals to be heroes in their own right by donating blood and potentially saving lives.
Throughout the day, the spirit of giving was palpable as community members came forward, displaying the true essence of unity and compassion. Those who had bravely battled sickle cell disease shared their stories, shedding light on the struggles they faced, and the vital role blood donors play in their lives.
The event was a testament to the fact that, united, we can make a significant impact on the lives of those in need. Volunteers, donors, and organizers worked hand in hand, forging connections and friendships, all while contributing to a cause greater than themselves.
Jasmine's presence was deeply felt throughout the day. Her unwavering determination to live life to the fullest, despite her battle with sickle cell, served as an inspiration to everyone present. Her legacy lives on through the Foundation, and her spirit continues to touch the lives of those fighting their own battles.
By the end of the blood drive, the combined efforts of the American Red Cross and The Jasmine Sickle Cell Warriors Foundation Inc. resulted in an impressive number of blood units collected. Every drop of blood will go on to impact the lives of patients in need, giving them a chance at a brighter and healthier future.
As we reflect on this incredible day, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to the American Red Cross for their dedication to the cause of blood donation. We also want to express our deepest appreciation to the community for their outpouring of support. Together, we have taken a significant step towards spreading hope and saving lives.
The success of this blood drive reminds us that when two forces for good come together, miracles can happen. We hope that this event will catalyze more partnerships and community-driven initiatives that create lasting change.
To everyone who participated, volunteered, and donated blood, know that you are true heroes. Your selflessness and generosity have made a difference in the lives of countless individuals. Let's continue to stand together, supporting one another and making a positive impact on the world around us.
As The Jasmine Sickle Cell Warriors Foundation Inc. looks towards the future, we are fueled by the spirit of our founder and her unyielding determination to make the world a better place. We pledge to keep organizing events like this, where love, hope, and compassion reign, and where lives are transformed, one donation at a time. Together, we will continue to fight for a future where sickle cell is defeated, and every life is celebrated with joy and gratitude.
Thank you for being a part of this remarkable journey. Together, we are stronger, and together, we will change lives.
The Warrior Hub
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Introducing The Warrior Hub, a program housed under the Jasmine Sickle Cell Warriors Foundation Inc. This support group is designed for mothers of sickle cell warriors, caregivers, friends, and family who want to connect with others who understand the challenges of sickle cell disease.
The Warrior Hub offers a variety of support groups, including mental and spiritual support. Our goal is to provide a safe and inclusive space for individuals to share their experiences, seek guidance, and find comfort in a community of others who truly understand.
All are welcome to join The Warrior Hub and become part of this supportive network. For more information on how to join, please visit our website or contact us directly.
Demetria Jackson: Sickle Cell Spotlight
Q1: Could you first let our listeners know more about yourself and what type of SCD that you have?
A: I have sickle cell anemia SC which a lit bit less severe than SS which is the most sever. I am a wardrobe stylist and online boutique owner. I have an English-literature degree with a minor in political science from Florida State University and I live in Florida.
Q2: How did you choose your major?
A: Well, my degree is in English-literature, but fashion has always been my thing. I am currently a stylist and my long-term goals align with me being a wardrobe stylist. I do plan on going back to school for cooperate law and business. My main goal is to eventually learn how to run a business.
Q3: When you were in college did you have challenging moments related to your SCD. If so, how did you power though?
A: I’ve actually had a couple different time where I had to stop my semester and take time off which set me back 2 semesters. One semester I actually spent a month in the hospital due to complications within my apartment that caused a SC crisis to happen. Then I ended up in the hospital again during the summer for 2.5 weeks which caused me to drop all my summer classes. Those were my most severe cases, but I spent a few days here and there in the hospital throughout my entire time in school. I had to pretty much just keep on top and ahead of lessons and keep my mind focused to graduate.
Q4: Do you remember your first crisis and how your family handled it?
A: My first crisis that I can remember I was 7 years old and spent a month and a half in the hospital. I was only in first grade so all I really understood was that I was in excruciating pain but not why I was in the pain. All I remember is sleeping and being transferred from room to room. The one day that I did decide to get out of my room and walk around, I was in too much pain to even move and I had to drag myself back to my room. That’s when it really hit me that I had SCD and that it was a very serious situation.
Q5: Try to describe the level of pain that you’ve experienced.
A: For me, I would describe it as being stuck by needles and knives and having someone scrape the knives against your bones. It then gets really hard to move because everything gets really heavy and stiff. It gets to a point where your medication doesn’t even work, and you have to go to the hospital.
Q6: When your parents found out about your SC how did they handle it?
A: Well, my dad’s brother had SC and passed away from it, so my father was already well educated and an advocate for my uncle. He was always at the hospital with my uncle, advocating for him to doctors. So, with my dad the SC talk with me was kind of easy going and he just reminded me that he’ll always be an advocate for me along with my mom.
Q7: How important is it to have someone there for you when doctors aren’t listening to you?
A: Extremely important. While in the middle of a SC crisis doctors were trying to tell me that I didn’t have sickle cell. I was all alone, so my mom and dad blew up the hospital phones, calling and faxing over my medical records since I was new to the area and hospital and their acts eventually got me a new doctor who listened to me that night. And then they still ended up driving up to it in the hospital with me for a week to step in whenever someone wasn’t listening or over talked me.
Q8: Why do you think most people don’t take sickle cells so seriously and why there’s such a misunderstanding?
A: I believe the first thing is because you can’t actually see the disease. We know if we touch a person arm with a broken arm in a cast that they will be in pain, but you can’t fully understand that when you lift a SC patient arm how much pain they are really in because there’s no cast. Also lack of information and education. In textbooks out today, it is written that a SCD crisis last 3 days to 2 weeks at most. When in actuality if you do basic research on SC you will find that a crisis can last from 3 days to 3 months. There’s also this misconception. That black people have a higher pain tolerance, so some physicians don’t take us as serious when describing how much pain we are actually in. Hospitalist usually just have a quick textbook overview on what SC is unlike hematologist who actually study blood and understand exactly how we feel. Have great personal relationship with hematologist who is very involved. Lost close friend due to negligence from health professions who gave her wrong dosage of pain medication and overall just ignored her.
Q9: Do you think that it would be better for organizations that are strictly sickle cell focused like the JSCW foundation to have advocates within organization to advocate for patients within the United States.
A: I believe it is very important to have that. Just to have back up to call hospitals and advocate for you when you aren’t able to do so yourself is very important. I actually met a few advocates on clubhouse who gave us their personal information to call them when needed and they would call your hospital for you.
Q10: This disease mainly affects us as people of color, what do you think as a community we need to do better to educate ourselves?
A: Talking to sickle cell patients and getting a clear understanding from them rather than reading what’s online and assuming you know everything which is one of the biggest problems in the medical community in my opinion.
Q11: Any final words on sickle cell that you want to leave our listeners with?
A: Just try to understand how severe it really is and always take people serious no matter if they have the trait or disease. Do not write trait patients off. And if someone says they are in pain please help them and don’t let them sit in pain. The best thing for a sickle cell patient is to get the pain off of them.
Clubhouse and Instagram: Apryl Golden
Facebook: Demetria Jackson
Virtual Warrior Week Sickle Cell Spotlight 09/15/20
Q1: For the people who are watching can you please just give us some quick background on who you are and how we met? A: Well, I came and spoke at your church and we’ve been connected ever since. As far as who I am, I was born and raised in Rocky Mount as Colesha Hagans. Phoenix is my stage name, I am the singer of a go-go band. My band name is Just Once. I now live in Raleigh where I am a mother of two, daughter and son. I am very much a serial entrepreneur and colorist. And, I own a specialty watch boutique along with a cosmetic line developed around sickle cell disease. I do it all. Q2: Tell our viewers about your experience with Sickle Cell and how it has affected you. A: Well, I was born with sickle cell disease. Most people don’t know that you are born with it, I get that question a lot. I had my daughter at a teen age and I didn’t have much prenatal care with her but childbirth during that time was normal and easy. Fast forward 20 years later to when I was pregnant with my 6-year-old son. With him I was already considered high-risk because I was 34. I was fearful with age and with sickle cell how my body would respond to pregnancy. While carrying him things were picture perfect but after giving birth to him I did have an infection and I did go into crisis. We did stay hospitalized longer than most, about 9 days in hospital after birth. Q3: Could you tell us what the word “warrior” means to you? A: Warrior to me means that you are brave-heart and fearless. While facing SCD the pain I have experienced has been the worst pain I have felt in my life. Even comparing it to childbirth. And, not just the pain but the physical wear and tear on the body, mental affect, and dealing with people who may not understand how you’re treated by medical professionals. As a warrior, we face so much it’s like what can’t I do? I can do anything that I want to do. Having SCD is my superpower and prepares me to deal with so many other things. Q4: Could you describe to us how you push through your pain despite everything that you go through? A: Growing up with SCD people are always telling you to rest. But for me, I have to take advantage of every good day that I have. I played volleyball, basketball, and soccer growing up and I used to always think playing too hard would cause me to go into crisis. “We will deal with that if it happens” was always my answer. I experience some level of pain daily and it literally just makes me stronger in everything that I do. As much as I like to think I am superwoman I am not. I do have days when I can’t deal with the pain and that’s when I call on my support system and most importantly God and I get through it. When dealing with pain management and medical professionals, some SCD patients are seen as seekers. In all honesty sometimes, we are dependent on our medication because imagine being on medication since birth. However, I do a lot of alternatives such as heating pads and try to use medication as a last resort. But sometimes you have no other choice but medication. Doctors also try to make experiments out of you when in ER and that’s not the time to try something new. I have been researching ways to bridge the gap between patient and provider. I like to think that I am important and how I feel matters but sometimes you are just another patient. After 41 years I have a high tolerance of pain. Q5: When was your last crisis and how bad was it? A: People with SC have daily pain, but my last crisis was months ago. Very minor, lasting minutes, a couple hours maybe. My last hospitalization was a year ago. I stopped using medication while nursing my son and as of today I am still not on any. However, I am very big on nutrition and try to eat as balanced as I can along with resting, exercising, and keeping my stress levels down. Q6: How important is having a support system? A: Sometimes you can’t put into words how you feel during a crisis and it is also a mental health thing. Having someone who is educated and can speak up for you is so important. I’ve actually been in the ER by myself and I had to speak up for myself because doctors wanted to tell me the dosage of meds I was on was too much. Their minds were so made up that they gave me so many rounds of different meds instead of what was on my file. So, having people in your corner like your hematologist who will speak with health professionals and vouch for you can save your life. It’s very important to have an EDUCATED go-to. Q7: Where can people find more information on your businesses and your personal life outside SC? A: Gogo band ig: Jusoncegogo Artist fb: Phoenix Lei Artist ig: phoenixlei Cosmetic ig: scarletmythcosmetics Cosmetics fb: Scarlet Myth Watch boutique ig: unwrittenraleigh Hair ig: haironfirebyphoenix Church: Word of God Fellowship in Raleigh 
Custom Sickle Cell Awareness Accessories
It all begins with an idea.
THE JASMINE SICKLE CELL WARRIORS FOUNDATION, INC. FIRST SICKLE CELL SPOTLIGHT, MONIQUE.G.PEOPLES .MONIQUE MAKES CUSTOM ACCESSORIES TO PROMOTE SICKLE CELL AWARENESS, AMONG OTHER CAUSES.SHE STARTED MAKING THESE PRODUCTS BECAUSE SHE HERSELF HAS SICKLE CELL AND COULD NEVER FIND ITEMS TO PROMOTE AWARENESS OF IT. SO SHE TOOK IT UPON HERSELF TO CHANGE THAT AND BEGAN MAKING ACCESSORIES FROM KEY CHAINS TO PHONE CASES THAT TURN AWARENESS INTO A FASHION STATEMENT. WHILE HAVING SICKLE CELL HAS BEEN DIFFICULT, MONIQUE CONTINUES TO REMAIN POSITIVE AND CONSIDERS IT TO BE “A BLESSING AND A CURSE.”SHE HAS MANY STRUGGLES BECAUSE OF THE DISEASE, EVEN ONES THAT REQUIRE BEING ADMITTED TO THE HOSPITAL, BUT SHE SAYS HAVING SICKLE CELL HAS MADE HER WHO SHE IS TODAY AND IN SOME WAYS IS EVEN GRATEFUL FOR IT. SHE SAYS IT HAS HELPED HER BE MORE CREATIVE AND EVEN THINK OUTSIDE THE BOX IN ORDER TO FIND HER OWN WAY OF DOING THINGS.“I’M PROUD OF EVERY CASE, KEY CHAIN, ETC. THAT I MAKE, BECAUSE I HAVE SOMETHING FOR MYSELF THAT HELPS ME DEAL WITH SOME OF THE EVERYDAY STRUGGLES THAT COME ALONG WITH SICKLE CELL AND IT IS SOMETHING THAT I DID BY MYSELF WITH NO ONE’S HELP,” MONIQUE SAYS. THANK YOU, MONIQUE FOR BEING A SICKLE CELL WARRIOR AND HELPING SPREAD AWARENESS AND FIGHTING FOR A CURE.