29/06/2026
I’ve heard too many stories of sickle cell warriors being laid off from their jobs because of their health, and I do not think that is right.
Rather than sacking someone because of something they cannot control, workplaces should put measures in place to accommodate their needs: remote work, flexible work hours, understanding sick leave, and other reasonable accommodations that help employees thrive according to their individual capacities.
This animation is dedicated to my warrior friend, Bolade 😊(with his permission to share of course), who was laid off because of his health. I watched it happen in real time. Thankfully, he is doing well now and is in a different country with a more considerate system..something he is always grateful for 😂. I only hope we continue moving toward that kind of consideration here too.
And let us not even start with the discrimination some warriors face at the interview stage simply because they disclose their medical condition.
Many warriors already push themselves twice as hard because they don’t want to be seen as incompetent. They work longer hours, show up even through pain, and constantly try to prove they are capable. Ironically, that pressure often places even more strain on their health.
People living with sickle cell are not less intelligent.
They are not less hardworking.
They are not less deserving of opportunity.
Accommodation is not favoritism.
It is equity.
Let’s build workplaces where warriors can work, live, and thrive with dignity. 🩸❤️
Have you or someone you know experienced discrimination at work because of sickle cell? Share your story in the comments!👇🏽
