💜 Understanding Sickle Cell Anemia: Raegan’s Journey

Understanding Sickle Cell: What's Happening Inside. This diagram visualizes some of the life-threatening complications Raegan navigates, including lung inflammation/consolidation (a sign of Acute Chest Syndrome) and the systemic impact of sickled RBCs blocking blood flow. Every part of her body is affected by this condition.

Sickle cell anemia is a genetic blood disorder that changes the shape of red blood cells. Instead of being round and flexible, the cells become rigid and crescent-shaped — like a sickle. These misshapen cells can block blood flow, break down too quickly, and cause a wide range of health challenges.

For Raegan, this condition has meant navigating many complications. Each one has shaped her journey and shown us her incredible strength. Here are some of the major challenges she has faced:

🫁 Acute Chest Syndrome

This serious complication can cause chest pain, fever, and difficulty breathing. It often mimics pneumonia and requires urgent care. Raegan has experienced this, and it remains one of the scariest risks of sickle cell.

🩸 Severe Anemia

Because sickled cells die faster than normal ones, Raegan’s hemoglobin levels often drop too low. This leaves her fatigued and sometimes in need of transfusions to restore balance.

🧬 Organ Damage

Over time, sickle cell can affect vital organs like the liver, kidneys, and lungs. Raegan’s liver has been under particular stress, requiring close monitoring and specialized care.

🦴 Avascular Necrosis

This occurs when sickled cells block blood flow to bones, causing bone tissue to die. For Raegan, it has specifically affected her hips, leading to pain and mobility challenges.

🌪️ Vaso-Occlusive Crisis

These painful episodes happen when sickled cells block blood vessels. Raegan has endured multiple crises, which can last hours or even days.

💢 Chronic Pain

Beyond acute crises, Raegan lives with ongoing pain that impacts her daily life. Managing this pain is a constant part of her care.

🧫 Splenic Sequestration Crisis

Her spleen has had trapped sickled cells, causing swelling and a dangerous drop in blood counts. This complication can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention.

👁️ Jaundice

When sickled cells break down, they release bilirubin, which can cause yellowing of the skin and eyes. Raegan has experienced this as part of her condition.

✨ Moving Forward

Each of these complications tells part of Raegan’s story — a story of resilience, faith, and community. By sharing her journey, we hope to raise awareness about sickle cell anemia and support other families walking a similar path.