About Us
Mayowa Arikawe Foundation, is a tribute to the memory of Mayowa Arikawe , a brave soul who battled sickle cell disease with unwavering courage. Our foundation was born from the deep desire to honor Mayowa’s legacy and make a meaningful impact in the fight against sickle cell disease.
Mayowa Arikawe, though he is no longer with us, continues to inspire our mission. His personal journey with sickle cell disease has fueled our commitment to improve the lives of individuals and families affected by this challenging condition. Mayowa’s resilience and determination are at the heart of our foundation.
Our Vision
Our vision is to create a world where individuals and families grappling with the challenges of sickle cell disease find unwavering support, boundless hope, and accessible resources at every juncture of their journey. We envision ourselves as the guiding light of transformation, pioneering innovative approaches and driving substantive change in the landscape of sickle cell care and advocacy. Through our relentless commitment to empowerment, education, and community building, we endeavor to not only uplift those directly affected by the disease but also to inspire a global movement of compassion, understanding, and solidarity. Together, we believe in forging a future where every individual impacted by sickle cell disease is embraced with dignity, resilience, and opportunities for a fulfilling life.
Our Mission
At the heart of our organization lies a mission that is both simple in its essence and profound in its implications: to profoundly enhance the quality of life for individuals navigating the complexities of sickle cell disease while concurrently fostering widespread awareness and understanding of this condition. We firmly believe that by equipping individuals with knowledge, providing unwavering support, and cultivating a culture of boundless compassion, we hold the power to catalyze transformative change and significantly improve outcomes for those affected by sickle cell disease. Our commitment extends beyond mere advocacy; it is a steadfast dedication to championing the inherent dignity, resilience, and inherent worth of every individual impacted by this condition. Through our multifaceted approach, we strive not only to alleviate the burdens associated with sickle cell disease but also to empower individuals to embrace their journey with strength, courage, and unwavering hope. Together, we endeavor to ignite a global movement of solidarity, compassion, and action, driving meaningful progress towards a future where every person affected by sickle cell disease can thrive with dignity and purpose.
Our Goals
Raise Awareness
Use various channels such as social media, workshops, seminars, and community events to educate people about sickle cell disease. Share information about its causes, symptoms, treatment options, and the challenges faced by individuals living with the disease. Collaborate with healthcare professionals, advocacy groups, and influencers to amplify your message and reach a broader audience.
Provide Support
Establish support networks and resources for individuals and families affected by sickle cell disease. This could include peer support groups, counseling services, financial assistance programs, and access to healthcare resources. Ensure that those affected have a supportive community to turn to for emotional, practical, and financial support.
Advance Research
Support research initiatives aimed at improving treatments, finding a cure, and enhancing the quality of life for individuals with sickle cell disease. This could involve funding research projects, participating in clinical trials, and advocating for increased funding and resources for sickle cell disease research. Collaborate with research institutions, medical professionals, and other organizations to drive progress in the field.
Foster Community
Build a strong and inclusive community for individuals affected by sickle cell disease, their families, caregivers, and allies. Organize events, gatherings, and online forums where people can connect, share experiences, and support one another. Foster a sense of belonging and empowerment within the community, encouraging individuals to advocate for their needs and rights.
Sickle Cell Insights
What is sickle cell disease?
Sickle cell disease is a genetic blood disorder that affects hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body. It causes red blood cells to become misshapen and break down, leading to various health complications.
How is sickle cell disease inherited?
Sickle cell disease is inherited in an autosomal recessive pattern, meaning it occurs when a child inherits two abnormal hemoglobin genes, one from each parent. These abnormal genes can come in different forms, but the most common type of sickle cell disease is caused by a mutation in the HBB gene, which provides instructions for making a protein called hemoglobin beta. When a person inherits two copies of this mutated gene (one from each parent), they have sickle cell disease. If a person inherits only one copy of the mutated gene, they are carriers of the disease but typically do not show symptoms.
What are the symptoms of sickle cell disease?
Sickle cell disease symptoms include pain crises, anemia, infections, delayed growth, vision problems, swelling of hands and feet, frequent urination, jaundice, stroke risk, and acute chest syndrome. Symptoms vary, and prompt medical attention is crucial for management.