The World Sickle Cell Day, globally commemorated on June 19, 2025 to raise awareness of the sickle cell disease (SCD), Nirvana Initiative, a nonprofit organisation dedicated to improving the lives of individuals living with the SCD disorder, hosted a heart-centered outreach event, themed: “Stronger Together”, in Agege, Lagos recently.
  
The event which brought together sickle cell warriors and caregivers for a day of support, healing, and connection is focused on building a community that centres not only on genotype awareness and advocacy, but also on the emotional, social, and everyday realities of individuals living with the SCD. The event also featured lifestyle discussions, mental health counseling, and others.
  
Founder of the initiative, Ms Modupeola Babawale, who is a warrior herself, said this event is part of Nirvana Initiative’s broader commitment to advocacy, education, and direct support for the sickle cell community in Nigeria and across Africa. “The theme: “Stronger Together” is a growing movement to reduce stigma, increase awareness, and ensure that no warrior was left behind. This event marks the first of its kind by Nirvana Initiative since its founding in 2015, and signals a new direction for the organisation. This is only the beginning. We want to take this model to more communities, especially underserved ones, where warriors are often forgotten. Every warrior deserves to be seen. Every warrior deserves support.”
  
In a heartfelt session that opened the floor to shared experiences, warriors and caregivers spoke passionately about the physical and emotional toll of living with sickle cell. Conversations touched on self-esteem challenges, stigma, and the emotional isolation many warriors face.
  
The outreach was supported by Kredi Bank offering generous routine medications to help ensure warriors have access to consistent care.
  
Attendees received free routine medications, care packages, and access to medical consultations – but beyond the healthcare support, what truly resonated was the sense of community, visibility, and belonging that filled the space.
  
One of the beneficiaries, a 50-year-old warrior, Mrs. Mosunmola Bamigbola, urged fellow warriors to prioritise self-care and not believe myths about dying young. “It’s untrue that sickle cell warriors must die young. With proper care, we can live long, fulfilling lives.”
  
Bamigbola revealed that she stays healthy by drinking plenty of water, avoiding cold, and eating fruits and vegetables regularly to manage her condition.