Silent Crisis: Jaheem’s Journey
Living, Learning, and Laughing Through Sickle Cell
Meet Jaheem—an inspiring, energetic young boy who doesn’t let anything slow him down. He’s always on the move, whether he’s swimming, doing Jujitsu, coding, dancing, or making music at Groove School with his ukulele and piano. If there’s a club to join, Jaheem is in it—often encouraging his mum to sign him up for the next exciting opportunity. He’s also a proud Scout, a budding actor represented by an agency, and recently voiced not one, but two BBC projects.
Jaheem’s passion for life is infectious. His love for football and spending time with his family shines through in everything he does, especially on days out with his loved ones. But behind his active and joyful personality is a daily battle—a fight against Sickle Cell Disorder.
"I might have Sickle Cell but I always get through it. Even when I don’t feel great I just push through. I may have Sickle Cell, but in life I have so much fun."
What is it like Living with Sickle Cell
“I was born with Sickle Cell so it’s all I know,” Jaheem shares candidly. “Sickle Cell hurts a lot. It doesn’t give me a break—it’s really annoying. I wish I had Sickle Cell Trait instead. It’s just not fun at all. It’s like going on a smooth road, and then it becomes bumpy.”
Sickle Cell Disease is a lifelong condition that affects the shape of red blood cells, making it harder for them to carry oxygen and causing intense pain episodes known as “crises.” For many, including Jaheem, hospital visits are a frequent reality. Yet he faces them with incredible resilience.
“The hospital is a really nice place to go because the nurses and doctors are nice, kind, and fun. They help me get through my pain feeling. The doctors are lifesaving. I know a lot of the nurses and doctors, and they always remember me.”
Jaheem’s strength is grounded in his family. His mum, who also has Sickle Cell Anemia, and his dad, who carries the Sickle Cell Trait, support him every step of the way. Tragically, Jaheem lost his younger sister—who also had Sickle Cell—and through this heartbreaking experience, he connected with the Candle Bereavement Team at St. Christopher’s Hospice. Their therapy helped him through his grief, and in true Jaheem fashion, he chose to give back.
Raising Awareness, Raising Hope
Together with his family, Jaheem raised £1,869 through his JustGiving page, telling his story to inspire others and support those affected by loss. They also hosted a “Ribbon for an Angel” event at his school, honouring his sister’s memory and raising additional funds.
Jaheem’s story is a powerful reminder of the challenges so many children face—but also of their courage, spirit, and potential to make a difference.
Jaheem’s body, like many others with Sickle Cell, responds best to blood from donors of a similar ethnic background. If you’ve ever thought about giving blood, now is the time.
