More Than My Genotype: My Journey of Strength and Survival

Living with Sickle Cell (SS) is not a walk in the park, but it has shaped my story, sharpened my strength, and carved resilience into my DNA. As someone living with this condition and still striving daily to make meaningful impact — as a father, a husband, a professional at Interswitch, a music director, and a community advocate — I’ve come to embrace certain principles and practices that keep me stable physically, mentally, and spiritually.

💧 1. Staying Hydrated and Nourished

Water is not just a health tip for me — it’s medicine. I make hydration a priority every single day to keep my blood flow smooth and reduce crises. I also avoid junk and processed foods as much as possible and stick to a balanced diet that includes fruits, vegetables, and iron-rich meals.

🛌 2. Listening to My Body

Over the years, I’ve learned to listen to my body without guilt. When my body says “rest,” I obey — even when the world expects me to push. I pace myself and avoid unnecessary stress, knowing that rest is not laziness, it’s preservation.

💊 3. Medication and Medical Monitoring

I don’t joke with routine medications like folic acid and recommended supplements. I attend check-ups and prioritize preventive care. Early detection and timely treatment have helped me stay ahead of many health complications.

 🧠 4. Mental Strength and Emotional Honesty

Sickle Cell can sometimes feel like a psychological battle as much as a physical one. I have fought shame, fear, and the pressure to prove myself. But I’ve also learned to speak about my condition openly — including in my interview with PUNCH — to raise awareness, correct misconceptions, and encourage others.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 5. Love and Support Systems

My family — my amazing wife Omolola and our beautiful children Oluwafirefunmi Michelle and Fiwajoluwa Miguel — have been sources of strength. Their love fuels me. Friends, colleagues, and mentors who see me and not just my genotype have made life more meaningful.

🙏 6. God’s Grace

Above all, grace sustains me. As someone actively involved in ministry and music, I’ve seen firsthand how faith stabilizes the soul. The grace of God is not just a cliché for me; it is my anchor in the storm. It’s why I can say:

It’s the grace of God that has brought me through; it’s the reason I’m still standing.

🎤 7. Purpose and Advocacy

Whether through the Sheynormal Rehabilitation Program, music ministry with PBC MINSTRELS, or church projects at Praise Baptist Church, purpose keeps me going. Advocating for others, especially young people facing battles of their own, reminds me that my life has meaning beyond the pain.

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If you're reading this and you're a fellow warrior or caregiver, know this: Sickle Cell may shape your journey, but it doesn’t define your worth. Choose life daily. Rest when you need to. Speak up. Hold onto hope. And most importantly, lean on grace.