Latest news with #SickleCell
Hans India
21 hours ago
- Health
- Hans India
Eradication possible through awareness: Collector
Vijayawada: NTR district collector Dr G Lakshmisha on Thursday emphasised that Sickle Cell Anaemia can be eradicated through comprehensive awareness, announcing large-scale awareness programmes which commenced on June 19. He highlighted a robust action plan in place to curb the disease, with a specific focus on tribal areas. On Thursday, to mark World Sickle Cell Day, the District Medical and Health Department organised a Sickle Cell awareness programme at the Kondapalli Tribal Welfare Girls' School. Collector Lakshmisha, along with other officials, unveiled posters, pamphlets, and manuals related to the Sickle Cell Anaemia Eradication Mission and comprehensive disease information. Speaking at the event, the collector stressed the urgent need to create widespread awareness about the disease across various segments of society, as part of the mission to eradicate Sickle Cell Anaemia even before 2047. He explained that while healthy red blood cells are typically round, in Sickle Cell Anaemia, these cells are crescent-shaped. He clarified that the disease is hereditary, passed from parents, and is not contagious. He added that the disease can be diagnosed through a simple blood test. He reassured that individuals with Sickle Cell Anaemia need not worry, as timely identification and proper medical care can significantly improve a patient's quality of life.
Daily Mirror
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
Love Island star's healthy cousin, 28, dies suddenly from 'terrible' condition
Love Island star Konnor Ewudzi has revealed that his family "suffered terribly" due to Sickle cell - and even lead to the devastating loss of his cousin at just 28-years-old. Love Island contestant Konnor Ewudzi is raising awareness for World Sickle Cell Day (June 19) by sharing the devastating effect of the condition, effecting a large majority of his own family. Sickle cell is a genetic condition that affects the development of a person's red blood cells, where they develop into crescent shapes that can create blockages of blood vessels. These blockages of cells cause a lot of pain and even damage organs. Konnor, who starred in the 2024 season of Love Island, and now works as a barber in Cornwall, shared how he was lucky enough not to inherit the genetic condition that requires two parents who both have the gene. He explained: "I am on one of the lucky ones. My Mum Siobhan is mixed race, and she didn't carry the trait, which is why I am so fortunate," charting his "luck" to his mother's mixed heritage. However the rest of his family were not so lucky. Konnor shared how his father Godfrey, sister Billie-May, Auntie Freda, Uncle Richard and late Cousin Alexander "suffered terribly growing up, with hospital visits and blood transfusions required to help them with their pain" due to Sickle cell. Leaving a permanent effect on his family, the Love Islander opened up about the death of his cousin due to the condition. He said: "My cousin, Alexander was born with sickle cell. He died at just 28, out of the blue". Alexander's death was unexpected, occurring just after he graduated from Cambridge University as an architect. "He was not sick or suffering any long term illnesses – his organs just gave up one day. It is so sad that this can rob us of such beautiful lives at such young ages. Testing is so key. And blood giving even more so," Konnor said. In an effort to avoid further tragedy, Konnor's family now advocate for testing of Sickle Cell. "Seeing the way it has affected Freda, my Brother Richard and the sad loss of my late nephew, Alexander, is just heart-breaking. We just want to help more people avoid what we went through if possible," his dad, Godfrey, explained. The star's sister, Billie-May, a sufferer of Sickle Cell, added: "[Testing] is definitely something I have to think about when I meet a new partner. Like it is on my mind when I start dating someone new – I don't talk about it much but it is really important young people are aware of it". To raise awareness and encourage people to test for the debilitating disease, Konnor's family gathered in Abbey Wood's estate, East London, for a photoshoot to highlight the effects the condition has on real people and families. Abbey Wood is the location of where Netflix 's Supacell was filmed, with Konnor highlight how the hit series excellently raised awareness for the condition. He said: "The series did an amazing job of highlighting the condition to the public, but there is so much more people need to know". Help us improve our content by completing the survey below. We'd love to hear from you! Affecting over 18,000 people in the UK, Rachel Simpson, the communications officer and SEL lead mentor for Sickle Cell Society, urges anyone who is unsure of their genotype to get tested before planning a family planning, should they wish to. Rachel said: "What we really need more than anything is for people to give more blood. Blood transfusions are the main treatment process for people with the disorder, and many don't know that people with the trait can give blood. It's so important to donate if you can". Konnor also pointed out that 'one blood unit or donation which takes 20 mins can help up to three patients" and that he hopes, by sharing his story, the numbers of unit donations increase.
Scotsman
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Scotsman
'Sickle cell isn't just on Supacell': Konnor Ewudzi and his family open up about their experience on World Sickle Cell Day
'My entire family has been affected by Sickle Cell' Konnor Ewudzi speaks openly while sitting on the steps of the Abbey Wood estate, which shot to fame as the setting for Rapman's Netflix blockbuster SUPACELL Sign up to our daily newsletter – Regular news stories and round-ups from around Scotland direct to your inbox Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to The Scotsman, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... 'The series did an amazing job of highlighting the condition to the public, but there is so much more people need to know.' Sickle Cell Disorder is a genetic condition which affects the red blood cells – where they develop into a crescent shape, this can cause blockages of the blood vessels leading to pain and potential organ damage. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad For someone to be born with Sickle Cell, two parents carrying the 'trait' have to come together. This is why testing is so important. Konnor's family are very close 'For me, I am on one of the lucky ones. My dad (Godfrey) carries the trait, so does my sister Billie-May. My mum Siobhan is mixed race, and she didn't carry the trait, which is why I am so fortunate. "But my auntie Freda, uncle Richard and late cousin Alexander, were not so lucky. They suffered terribly growing up, with hospital visits and blood transfusions required to help them with their pain and suffering.' The Rugby Presenter and Love Island star gently gathered family members on Monday, June 16 at the Abbey Wood estate to capture these special images, designed to show how big the impact of Sickle Cell can be on just one family. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad 'My cousin, Alexander was born with sickle cell. He died at just 28, out of the blue. He had just graduated from Cambridge University as an architect. He was not sick or suffering any long term illnesses – his organs just gave up one day. The Ewudzi's on the steps of the Netflix hit series SUPACELL which focuses on the condition "It is so sad that this can rob us of such beautiful lives at such young ages. Testing is so key. And blood giving even more so.' 'It is definitely something I have to think about when I meet a new partner,' Konnor's sister Billie-May said. 'Like it is on my mind when I start dating someone new – I don't talk about it much but it is really important young people are aware of it." 'Seeing the way it has affected Freda, my brother Richard and the sad loss of my late nephew, Alexander, is just heartbreaking. We just want to help more people avoid what we went through if possible,' said Godfrey. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad 'We had Billie-May and Konnor tested when they were really little. It was a nerve-racking time, but it had to be done. We are the lucky ones," agreed Siobhan, Konnor's mum. Konnor and his family headed to the Abbey Wood Estate where SUPACELL was filmed The national campaign for awareness this year is called 'TELL IT LOUD' – asking all those with Sickle Cell or the trait to share their experiences and help educate the nation on this largely misunderstood condition. 'This affects over eighteen thousand people in the UK – we urge those who may not know their genotype to get tested before family planning.' Rachel Simpson, Communications Officer & SEL Lead Mentor for Sickle Cell Society said. 'What we really need more than anything is for people to give more blood. Blood transfusions are the main treatment process for people with the disorder, and many don't know that people with the trait can give blood. It's so important to donate if you can.' Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Konnor continued: 'One blood unit or donation which takes 20 mins can help up to three patients – so it really is an incredibly easy way to help Sickle Cell sufferers. There are blood donation centres all over the UK so we are hoping the numbers go up after sharing our personal stories.' Love Island's Konnor Ewudzi and family have shared their personal stories on Sickle Cell Disorder John James OBE, Chief Executive of the Sickle Cell Society said: 'Sickle cell disorder is the UK's fastest growing genetic condition, but people living with it still face too much silence and too little support. That's why we're asking people to 'Tell It Loud' this World Sickle Cell Day — by sharing their story, giving blood, and getting MPs to support better employment rights for people living with the condition. We're so grateful to Konnor for sharing his story and helping us shine a light on sickle cell and the urgent need for more action, more awareness and more black heritage blood donors.'
The Print
25-04-2025
- Health
- The Print
India hands over Sickle Cell, Thalassemia vaccines to Nepal
'The Government of India is providing medicines and vaccines worth USD 2 million for the management of patients with Thalassemia and Sickle Cell Disease in response to a request from the Nepali government,' the statement said. Ambassador of India to Nepal Naveen Srivastava handed over the first consignment of vaccines for Sickle Cell Disease and Thalassemia to Minister of Health and Population Pradip Paudel, the statement said. Kathmandu, Apr 25 (PTI) India handed over Sickle Cell and Thalassemia vaccines to Nepal in response to the Nepal government's request, a statement said on Friday. 'The first consignment of vaccines/medicines includes Influenzae Vaccine (3100 units), Salmonella Vaccine (1550 units), Meningococcus Vaccine (3100 units), Haemophilus Influenza Vaccine (4640 units), and Streptococcus Pneumonia Vaccine (4640 units),' it said. The statement said the contribution from India would help bolster Nepal's efforts in addressing these inherited blood disorders, which pose significant health challenges to affected individuals and families. 'The provision of these vaccines underscores the strong and enduring partnership between the two nations, particularly in the crucial healthcare sector,' it said. The ambassador said the vaccines would be instrumental in enhancing the quality of life for individuals affected by Sickle Cell Disease and Thalassemia in Nepal. Paudel acknowledged the long-standing collaboration with India and its contributions to Nepal's healthcare system. 'This initiative is a testament to the close ties and collaborative spirit between India and Nepal, reflecting a shared vision for a healthier future for their citizens. The Government of India remains committed to partnering with Nepal in various sectors, including health, to foster mutual progress and development,' the statement said. PTI SBP PY PY PY This report is auto-generated from PTI news service. ThePrint holds no responsibility for its content.
Chicago Tribune
14-04-2025
- General
- Chicago Tribune
Community news: Annual plant sale and Sickle Cell awareness events
Master Gardeners Association to host annual plant sale The Lake County Master Gardeners annual Plant Sale will be held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. May 10 in the Fine Arts Building of the Lake County Fairgrounds, 2293 N. Main St., Crown Point. The sale will feature a variety of plants, including herbs, vegetables, native plants, annual flowers, perennial flowers, trees and shrubs and hanging baskets. Gently used garden tools and treasures will be for sale as well. A master gardener will present a demonstration at 11 a.m. on growing potatoes in a bag. The Lake County Master Gardener Association is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization affiliated with Purdue University. Members raise funds to support scholarships for students of horticulture and related studies and grants for local gardening projects that benefit the Lake County communities the gardeners serve. Visit for more information. Valparaiso invites participants to City Government Academy A seven-week City Government Academy will be offered to provide residents with a better understanding of the inner workings of city government in Valparaiso. The Academy will run from May 14 to June 25 with meetings from 6 to 8 p.m. every Wednesday. More than 150 people have graduated from the City Government Academy, with several now serving in elected or appointed positions throughout the city. The Academy will shed light on how decisions are made, how money is allocated, and how services are delivered. Program participation is free but limited to 35 participants per session. Registration is required and priority will be given to Valparaiso residents. To learn more about the Academy or to sign up, visit or call Maggie Clifton at City Hall, 219-462-1161. Travail With Us to host two Sickle Cell awareness events Travail With Us founder and CEO Alfreida Robins is leading the charge to raise awareness for Sickle Cell disease through two free signature events. Following the loss of her younger brother and cousin to complications from Sickle Cell, Robins is committed to keeping their memories alive while helping those who are battling the disease. The events include a Sickle Cell Awareness Walk and picnic from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday at Hidden Lake Park, 6355 Broadway, Merrillville. Participants from the community, Travail with Us employees clients and supporters will walk the perimeter of the park twice and then gather for a balloon release in memory of those who lost their lives due to complications from Sickle Cell disease. There is no cost to participate. Walkers will be treated to an afternoon of food, music and fellowship, while medical professionals offer information and resources. The Second Annual Sickle Cell Gala will be held on April 25 at the Dean and Barbara White Center, 6600 Broadway, Merrillville. Doors open at 5 p.m. The formal occasion will feature, dinner, dancing, networking, speakers and resources. The community is invited to nominate a 'Sickle Cell Warrior' to be honored at the affair by sending an email to Travailwithus@ While there is no cost to attend the gala, registration is required by calling 219-777-0279 or sending an email to travailwithus@ Chesterton High School to hold 34th Annual Radiothon Chesterton High School's WDSO 88.3 FM Radio Station will host their 34th annual Radiothon from 3 to 10 p.m. on Friday, and from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through April 25. Disc jockeys will take song requests and dedications at 219-983-3777, and will be giving away prizes from local businesses and WDSO merchandise throughout the week. The Radiothon will be led by Senior program directors Braden Kennelly and Elsa Estridge; and WDSO staff members and DJs Dallas Howard, Cece Post, Claire Demmon, Sam Ames, Joe Lucken, Phoe, Damion Lopez and Owen Edlen. Pledges can be mailed in with cash, checks made out to WDSO, or donate via credit/debit card through the link that will be posted on WDSO's Facebook page on Friday. WDSO's retro logo shirts will be available for a donation of $25 by calling the station. The logo was designed in the 1980s by Chesterton resident Deano Recktenwall. Donations received from the public during the Radiothon help support the station's general upkeep, as well as funding the cost of a much-needed mixing board upgrade. WDSO is currently looking for donations from local businesses, specifically gift certificates to contribute to their pool of on-air giveaways, a staple of Radiothon. Additionally, the station is seeking out testimonials from WDSO alumni to read on air about why WDSO was beneficial to you. Reach out on WDSO's Facebook messenger or email efletcher@ if you would like to contribute to either cause. Shirley Heinze Land Trust to host 2025 spring benefit Shirley Heinze Land Trust will host their Annual Spring Benefit at 5:30 p.m. May 3 at the William Urschel Pavilion, 63 Lafayette St., Valparaiso. This year's theme, 'Grow With Us,' invites attendees to celebrate the organization's conservation efforts and learn how they can support the future of land preservation in Northwest Indiana. The Spring Benefit is the cornerstone of Shirley Heinze Land Trust's annual outreach and fundraising efforts. This year's fundraising goal is $310,000. All proceeds go directly towards preserving and restoring natural lands and waters in northwestern Indiana and engaging people in nature and conservation. Sponsorship opportunities are available with levels ranging from Big Bluestem at $500 to Champion at $25,000 with benefits including event admission, brand visibility, and exclusive experiences like a guided hike at Meadowbrook or Lydick Bog Nature Preserve.
