In order to increase awareness of genotype compatibility in relationships, a young Nigerian woman has shared her story and opened up about the significant challenges of having sickle cell illness.
She warned against the foolishness of marriage without taking genetic compatibility into account in an emotional statement shared on social media under the handle @theimabong.
Imabong spoke with tears in her eyes as she described how such a choice condemns children—including herself—to a lifetime of suffering and emphasized the need for genotype education and counseling.
Challenges and Irreversible Struggle of Ignoring Genotype Compatibility: Imabong’s Story
Limping: She disclosed that she was unable to wear flat slippers since she developed a persistent limp 12 years ago as a pain-coping method. Due to financial limitations, corrective medical intervention—which is anticipated to cost over $15,000—remains unattainable.
Medication Addiction: The sickle cell warrior exposed to the hazards of becoming hooked on severe pain drugs required to control her disease. She clarified that prolonged use can result in kidney failure, which would exacerbate her health issues.
Numerous Surgeries: She disclosed that the adverse consequences of epidural anesthesia, including persistent back pain, have severely affected her quality of life and may have shortened her life expectancy after undergoing three surgeries.
Emotional and Mental Effects: She described experiencing depression, suicidal thoughts, and stigma that was made worse by insensitive comments from society, such as inquiries about her physical characteristics and yellow eyes.
Financial Strain: She has had to pay high costs for medication, stress management, and health maintenance as a result of managing sickle cell illness.
Imabong made a heartfelt appeal in closing, advising couples to put their genetic compatibility first before getting married. She underlined that raising awareness can spare future generations from needless suffering and that the difficulties faced by people with sickle cell disease are frequently avoidable.