In a vibrant display of unity and resilience, the Sickle Cell Hope Alive Foundation (SCHAF) orchestrated a Rally-Walk from Apex Event Centre to NTA Shopping Complex in Ibadan to commemorate World Sickle Cell Day 2025. Themed “Working Together to Reduce the Burden of Sickle Cell Disease: Leaving No One Behind,” the event aimed to raise awareness about sickle cell disease and empower communities to advocate for informed health decisions.
Led by Mr. Abayomi Odetunde, the Director of Operations representing SCHAF's founder and trustee, Prof. Adeyinka Falusi, the rally drew the participation of key figures, including Prof. Chinedu Peace Babalola, a leading advocate and pharmaceutical chemistry professor at the University of Ibadan, and Dr. Kotila from the Faculty of Pharmacy at the same institution. The event was marked by enthusiastic participation from community members, students, and healthcare professionals, all eager to show their support for the sickle cell community.
The morning air was charged with excitement as participants donned bright T-shirts emblazoned with slogans promoting awareness of sickle cell disease. Many carried placards decorated with messages such as “Know Your Genotype!” and “Together Against Sickle Cell!” while others distributed flyers detailing the importance of understanding sickle cell traits before marriage.
As the procession made its way through the streets of Ibadan, participants chanted slogans, collaborated in rhythmic steps, and shared personal stories, generating a palpable sense of camaraderie. The gathering highlighted the urgent need to educate the public about the inheritability of sickle cell disease, emphasizing the importance of genetic testing and awareness prior to starting families.
Mr. Odetunde, addressing the crowd, voiced the significance of the event, stating, “June 19 has been designated by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a day of awareness for sickle cell disease. At SCHAF, we do not shy away from this responsibility. Our aim with this rally is to reach those who remain unaware of sickle cell disease and its implications, encouraging them to make informed health decisions.”
Prof. Chinedum Peace Babalola passionately elaborated on the science behind sickle cell disease. “Sickle Cell Anemia is a genetic disorder where the red blood cells are misshapen, impacting their ability to flow smoothly through blood vessels. This leads to severe pain, fatigue, and can even result in strokes or hemolytic anemia, causing frequent hospital visits and sometimes even death,” she explained.
Babalola stressed the hereditary nature of sickle cell disease, informing the audience how fate can take tragic turns when parents carrying sickle cell traits (AS) procreate, potentially resulting in a child with the disease (SS). Her warning underscored the necessity of genetic awareness and informed family planning. “Nigeria has the highest number of people living with sickle cell disease in the world. We must educate ourselves and our communities to minimize these occurrences,” she urged.
Participants of all ages received more than just information; after the rally, valuable resources in the form of medications were distributed to community members. The outreach initiative focused on providing support to those living with sickle cell anemia, demonstrating the Foundation’s commitment to not leaving anyone behind.
As the walk concluded, attendees mingled, exchanging contacts, and discussing how they could further promote sickle cell awareness within their neighborhoods. The event successfully underscored the power of collective action and the vital role of community in making a tangible impact on public health, extending the motto: “Global Action, Local Impact, Empowering Communities for Effective Self-advocacy.”
By fostering open conversations around sickle cell disease, SCHAF continues to make strides towards a future where no individual is left to navigate the challenges of sickle cell alone. The rally not only served as a reminder of the struggles faced by many but also as a beacon of hope for those committed to reducing the disease’s burden through awareness and education.
