Patients, families and health care providers at the Antigua and Barbuda Sickle Cell Association have created a compelling awareness campaign.

The concept was surprisingly simple. Living with Sickle Cell Disease can be incredibly hard.  One would think that this makes us weak, but the opposite is the case – it enables us to identify what needs to change and to improve. It gives us the determination to initiate that change. And change is needed. The sheer number of things which are NOT the way they should be is overwhelming. Sometimes, we wonder how we can ever move that mountain. This campaign shows: together, we can make a difference.

In a joint effort, Sickle Cell sufferers, family members and association members created powerful images and messages. The first set is now being displayed on the electronic billboard on Old Parham Road, thanks to the generosity of “Blashie” Blashford Wilkins. A second set will follow soon. The photos and slogans will touch hearts and bring awareness to the Sickle Cell cause. And hopefully, by emphasizing the need for partner-testing, they will prevent suffering. The response has been overwhelming. We are on the right track.