Sickle Cell Warriors in Kakamega County have revealed their daily pain, stigma and neglect they undergo in the society, calling for more health and social support.
Speaking during World Sickle Cell Day at Kakamega General Hospital, the Warriors asked both the National and County government to set aside funds for them, set up dedicated care centres and create more public awareness to end stigma.
They lamented that sickle cell drugs are too expensive, making it challenging to acquire them. "Sometimes we need blood transfusions when one lacks enough blood in the body," said Laura Mukoya, a 30-year-old warrior and teacher by profession.
A doctor at the Kakamega sickle cell clinic, Dr Neema Bukabi, said many sickle cell patients suffer in silence due to limited access to specialised care, lack of awareness and stigma associated with the disease.
