Three days after her birth, our daughter Mariah was diagnosed with Sickle Cell Disease. Sickle Cell Disease causes the red blood cells to have a “sickle” shape. This odd shape means the red blood cells will not function properly as an oxygen and iron carrier. Poor red blood oxygen within the thin blood vessels causes severe pain in the body and many other health problems. Stressful events, poor eating habits, lack of oxygen, not taking the required medication, very cold or hot weather can trigger a pain crisis.
At the age of 4 years old, Mariah had her spleen removed due to sickle cell complications. Mariah will have to take penicillin for the rest of her life. Mariah has spent many days and nights in the emergency room, the hospital and blood transfusions to help her get better. It hasn’t been easy for us financially, even with medical insurance. Our faith in God, family, friends, and generous people like you has kept our family together during these rough times.
My Sickle Cell Story website brings a message of Hope, Love & Faith in God. It is our desire that as many families that are affected by this disease would share their experiences and stories to help bring awareness. To overcome and heal from this sickness everyone’s story must be told and heard. Please share your story, and together we will all overcome!
Mariah's 2nd Book is now available: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1724592971/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_U_DuPUEb50EMC3R
We have published our first book which tells my story. Please go here to own your copy! www.amazon.com
Visit us on Facebook as well: Facebook.com/Mysicklecellstory/
My Sickle Cell Story 
This is so wonderful that her story and the sotry of others with Sickle Cell Disease can be shared. You are in my prayers daily.
This is the start of something great!
May God continue to bless you, give you strength and direct your path.
Nice. Educational
Let me say great job and beautiful child. Im the father of two sick cell children ages 12 and 6 and an 8 yr old with trait. My 6 six yr old is going to have a bmt transplant with me being the donor.she has had three strokes.
Thank you for sharing your story. God bless you and your family as you continue your journey. Our prayers will be with you.
Mariah, my husband and I came in to the blood center today — we didn’t know it was your birthday, but that was certainly a special surprise. You are a beautiful young lady and while I’m sorry you have a condition that causes you to suffer, I am inspired by the beautiful way you handle it with grace and faith.
I read your book while I waited — what a beautiful way to express your story. I will pray for you and your family! Thank you for reminding us why it’s important to donate blood!
Happy birthday — may your day be blessed.
Stacy,
Thank you so much for stopping in on Saturday and donating your blood. And thank you for your kind comments, God has been good to me and my family. I hope that my story will inspire others to trust in God and look to him to gain strength while they fight this disease. God Bless you!
– Mariah
Hi Mariah Lynn.
I spoke with your auntie some weeks ago. As we were talking I mention my son. He is 11yrs old and has sickle cell disease. Your auntie began to tell me about you. She sent us your book and we loved it. My son took the book to school with him today to share with his teacher. A lot of the staff at his school are new and have had challenges with understanding the illness. My son is also the only child at his school with sickle cell disease. Therefore, a lot of the kids can’t relate or don’t understand why he can’t always go outside for recess or why he have to stay home at times. I have provided the school with other informative information pertaining to the illness, but I think after reading your story (another child with the same disease) will help a great deal. We thank you so very much for sharing your story.
Grace & Peace, Mariah Lynn