By Ohuakanwa Chibuzo
Popular Nigerian singer Adekunle Gold has opened up about his lifelong battle with sickle cell disease, shedding light on the challenges he faces and his mission to support others with the condition.
In a recent interview with CNN, Adekunle Gold, known for his hit songs and vibrant performances, shared his personal experiences with sickle cell disease, a genetic disorder that affects the blood. Despite facing online abuse and attacks, he remains resolute in his determination to raise awareness and provide support for others.
Adekunle Gold recounted how his condition has frequently led to hospitalizations and joint pain, significantly impacting his daily life. “I’ve known about my sickle cell disease all my life. Growing up, I had crises every time. I was in the hospital back-to-back,” he said. He admitted that as a child, he often engaged in activities that exacerbated his symptoms, such as playing football in the rain, despite warnings from his family.
ALSO READ: Whitemoney says he paid fans for votes during ‘BBNaija All Stars
Despite these challenges, Adekunle Gold refuses to let the disease define him. He aims to create a safe and supportive community for those living with sickle cell disease and encourages open dialogue about the struggles associated with the condition. “I want people living with sickle cell to feel safe, to feel like they have help and support,” he stated.
Through his music and advocacy, Adekunle Gold hopes to inspire others to share their stories and seek help when needed. His song “5 Star” is a powerful tribute to sickle cell survivors and addresses the stigma and silence often surrounding the condition. “I’m speaking about sickle cell disease now because I just got the courage to come out and speak up openly about it. A lot of people can’t share their stories like I can,” he said.
Adekunle Gold’s openness about his condition has resonated with many, though it has also attracted negative reactions. “They call you a sickler… Recently, when I talked about it [my struggle with sickle cell] in the song [‘5 Star’], I saw a lot of tweets from people attacking and abusing me,” he revealed.
Despite the criticism, Adekunle Gold remains committed to his mission of raising awareness and supporting those with sickle cell disease. His story is a testament to resilience and the importance of community and advocacy in the face of adversity.
