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.