Sickle cell disease is a condition that affects between 12,500 and 15,000 people in the UK (NICE, 2014), many of these being people of African and Caribbean descent. Anne Welsh was diagnosed with the condition at a young age, and released her book on World Sickle Cell Awareness Day (19th June) called Pain Less: Living With Pain, Finding Joy, all about her life managing the ‘invisible condition’, and thriving nonetheless. She writes to her 21-year-old self about the importance of being patient, and looking on the bright side in hard times.
Dear Anne,
You are smart, intelligent and unique. I know you are asking yourself, ‘Why me? Why am I suffering and going through so much pain? Why am I missing out on the fun things that life has to offer?’ But don’t worry; life has a way of waiting for you to shine at the right time.
Today it might seem like you are never going to amount to anything and the beautiful world is passing you by. It’s hard being physically sick and suffering from depression at the same time, but trust me, you are doing great. I know the pressure life will throw at you to try and do everything at once – finishing university, getting a job and getting married – but believe me, there is no right time. The only time that exists is your time; all these will happen eventually.
You are staring up into the skies, wondering whether anyone will ever take you seriously as you feel you have let people down – the complications of sickle cell disease make it harder to meet your potential. It comes up a lot, and often very unexpectedly and this leaves you angry and frustrated. You’re angriest when you have plans to go out with your sisters – you’ve saved up to buy the perfect outfit to wear for the night when, as luck would have it, the illness hits.
But becoming stressed by the situation will not help you move forward; it will only make things worse, as your illness can be triggered by stress. You get anxious because lot of people you talk to don’t seem to understand what you are going through, as you look perfectly fine on the outside. Try to let go of this anxiety, as one day you will be able to use your voice to make a difference in the world for others who are going through similar issues and need someone to look up to.
Rather than worrying so much about having sickle cell disease, look at yourself when you are well: able to play, smiling, laughing and free. You will become a better person if you spend more time enjoying the moment and creating precious memories with loved ones. There is no point being discouraged, thinking you are not good enough as no-one is perfect. Love yourself and everyone who loves you as this will make life a lot less stressful – and in turn, it’ll reduce the amount of time you will have to spend in hospital.
I know your illness puts limitations on you, but see this as it being better to know exactly what you can do, and enjoy it. Don’t let your limitations hold you back.
Finally, my dear Anne, listen up: life is beautiful and life is kind. You were born for a reason and one day you will find your voice. Never be discouraged, unhappy, selfish or greedy. Reach out to the needy and spread love where you can. Yes, you have a disease that seems to stop you from doing a lot, but never let it ruin your beautiful smile. Keep persevering and you will get where you want to be.
Loves,
Anne xox
Anne’s book, Pain Less: Living With Pain, Finding Joy (Silverwood Books) is out now
