Sickle Cell Disease Awareness Month

Misty Williams — A Sickle Cell Disease Warrior

Although the disease has taken her through the changes, she’s still here and making a difference.   Healthy red blood cells are round, moving through small blood vessels to carry oxygen to all parts of the body. If the hemoglobin is abnormal, red blood cells become hard and sticky and look like a C-shaped farm tool or a “sickle.” The sickle cells die early, which causes a constant shortage of red blood cells. They also get stuck and clog the blood flow. This can cause pain and other serious health complications including infection, acute chest syndrome and stroke. Related Links: