My Life Beyond Sickle Cell Disease

 

Title: My Life Beyond Sickle Cell Disease

Author: Hey Gee and Golden Ella

Illustrations: Hey Gee

Publisher: Mayo Clinic Press Kids

ISBN: 9781945564659

 

Review:

Sickle cell disease affects the red blood cells. These cells are shaped like crescent moons rather than being round. They can get stuck in the blood vessels which can slow the blood flow. As a result, there can be extreme pain. 

Sickle cell disease can be managed by getting good sleep, eating healthy, staying active, drinking plenty of water, taking the medication prescribed, and seeing a doctor regularly. Meditation can also help reduce stress. Gene therapy treatments can reduce symptoms and reduce complications. 

This educational guide reads like a graphic novel, and it shares information and the motivation of a young athlete who can run and compete while managing the disease. Parents and teachers can use this as a tool to teach kids about sickle cell disease. The back pages have a glossary and more resources for learning.

 

Courtesy Smith Publicity, Inc.