My husband has sickle cell anemia. Sickle cell is an inherited form of anemia - a condition in which there are not enough healthy red blood cells to carry adequate oxygen throughout the body. The blood cells become rigid and sticky and are shaped like sickles or crescent moons. These irregularly shaped cells can get stuck in small blood vessels, which can slow or block blood flow and cause extreme pain.
My husband has dealt with this disease all of his life. This recent attack was like one I have never seen. His whole body hurt, he could not get any relief at all. He was frustrated and crying as so was I. The nurse that we had on our first night in the hospital which was Monday, December 16th was not familiar with my husband's condition, and we felt was not adequately caring for his needs, but Tuesday morning, The Good Lord sent in Jackie. Jackie has taken care of my husband numerous times. She has shown patience, compassion, love, understanding, I could go on and on. I felt peace in the room when I saw Jackie walk in because she goes above and beyond to provide care for my husband. I am not sure his pain would be controlled today if it wasn't for Jackie.
Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for being a caregiver who cares. It seems like you always know what we need before we even ask. You are always amazing and we thank God for you.