Mrs. Opeyemi Afolabi, a sickle cell disorder (SCD) patient, has shared her story of losing a job after her employer was informed about her health condition. Speaking on Saturday in Lagos, Afolabi recounted the incident during the grand finale of "Project Empower A Warrior 3.0," organized by the Crimson Bow Sickle Cell Initiative, a non-profit dedicated to empowering those with the disorder.
Afolabi, one of 300 SCD patients in attendance, emphasized the importance of self-belief and resilience. Despite the challenges of living with sickle cell disorder, she encouraged others not to feel confined or intimidated.
"Prioritize your health and don't bite off more than you can chew," she advised, stressing that understanding one's body and limits is key to thriving in both health and entrepreneurship. Afolabi urged fellow sickle cell warriors to work hard and remain determined to make an impact.
Another speaker at the event, entrepreneur Mr. Oluwagbohunmi Dada, who also lives with sickle cell anaemia, echoed Afolabi's sentiments. He called for increased attention to the disorder, both in terms of research and medical support. "Sickle cell is not a death sentence," Dada said. "It shouldn't stop you from living your life. I have had a decent career, I'm married with kids, and I run a business. Sickle cell doesn't define you."
Dada emphasized the need for government and private sector investment in medical research to develop solutions for the condition. He urged fellow patients to embrace entrepreneurship, saying, "Focus on your business, believe in yourself, and never let anyone write you off."
Timi Edwin, Founder and CEO of Crimson Bow, encouraged patients to prioritize their health while also focusing on building sustainable businesses. She praised the Lagos State Government for its support but called for even more efforts to help sickle cell patients lead normal lives.
Guest lecturer and business consultant Gabriel Omin advised patients to pursue entrepreneurship carefully, avoiding undue stress that could trigger health crises. "Know your limits and work within them," he urged.
The event concluded with the empowerment of over 250 individuals living with sickle cell disorder, who were trained in various entrepreneurial skills and awarded start-up grants for outstanding participants. The initiative, themed "Health and Wealth: Balancing Entrepreneurship in Sickle Cell," aims to help patients navigate Nigeria's challenging economic conditions while managing their health.
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