I have outlived a man who told my dad not to count me among his children because I have sickle cell – Nigerian lady shares

Elle Peter, a Nigerian woman who battles sickle cell disease, shared that she has surpassed the lifespan of a man who once dismissed her chances of survival. She revealed this on Twitter on World Sickle Cell Day, which is commemorated every June 19.

Recalling her childhood, Elle mentioned that a man advised her father not to include her in his count of children because she had sickle cell disease and was expected to pass away soon. However, in an ironic twist, the man himself passed away in 2016 while Elle continues to live a healthy and vibrant life.

Elle further disclosed that she had concealed her struggles with sickle cell disease until her 28th birthday. For years, her mother and she traveled extensively and resided abroad for her treatment, yet their friends and relatives remained unaware of her condition. Reflecting on the past, Elle realized that her parents were safeguarding her from societal stigma and malevolent individuals.