The Sickle Cell Society is close to my families heart having a direct impact on the care of my cousin, Aanton; whose story of living with sickle cell would inspire anyone!

I wanted to do the run challenge for this charity to support the help of all those involved in helping and supporting all the people currently suffering with sickle cell and their families.

The Sickle Cell Society is the only national charity in the UK that supports and represents people affected by a sickle cell disorder to improve their overall quality of life.

FACTS

- Sickle cell disorder (SCD) is the most common genetic blood condition in England, affecting approximately 17,500 people in the UK.

- Almost 300 babies are born in the UK with sickle cell each year.

- A simple blood test will tell whether you have sickle cell trait or the disorder

- Children with SCD are at increased risk for stroke, the risk is highest between the ages of 2 and 16.

- The main symptoms of sickle cell disorder are anaemia and episodes of severe pain. The pain occurs when the cells change shape after oxygen has been released. The red blood cells then stick together, causing blockages in the small blood vessels.

- Episodes of pain are generally referred to as a crisis, and require strong painkillers and often a hospital stay

- People with sickle cell are at risk of complications stroke, acute chest syndrome, blindness, bone damage and priapism (a persistent, painful erection of the penis)

- People with SCD can experience damage to organs such as the liver, kidney, lungs, heart and spleen.

- Death can also result from complications of the disorder. Treatment of

sickle cell mostly focuses on preventing and treating complications.

- The only possible cure is a bone marrow transplant but this is only possible for a limited number of affected individuals who have a suitable donor.

First set up as a registered charity in 1979, the Sickle Cell Society has been working alongside health care professionals, parents, and people living with sickle cell to raise awareness of the disorder.

The Society’s aim is to support those living with sickle cell, empowering them to achieve their full potential.

To learn about Sickle Cell please visit the website. http://www.sicklecellsociety.org