The wife of the Abia State Governor, Mrs. Pricillia Otti, has provided cash grants for medical expenses and health insurance for sickle cell patients in the state.

She said that at this year’s sickle cell program, the theme was: “Hope Through Progress: Advancing Sickle Cell Care Globally”, on Friday in Umuahia, said: “My office will continue to work closely with the Ministry of Health to develop and implement practical strategies that improve awareness, prevention and care for sickle cell disease in Abia State. “

Speaking on the theme of the programme, she said it highlighted the need for the global community to embrace advancements in the care of sickle cell patients to improve their lives.

Health Commissioner Enoch Uche said patients should undergo frequent treatment for malaria as the disease exacerbates the symptoms of the disease.

In his contribution, the Head of Non-Communicable Diseases, Uko Okorocha, explained that the disease poses significant challenges to patients and their families.

He said the event aimed to draw attention to the challenges faced by patients and their caregivers, and to celebrate the progress made in finding a cure and improving their standards of care. global scale.

Two patients, Victoria Akujobi and Ugonma Ohaeri, shared their experiences detailing the challenges they face, including stigma from healthcare providers and employers.

They urged the public, caregivers and employers to end discrimination against patients, calling for empathy and better support in their daily lives.