Refusing to be Crippled by Sickle Cell Anemia
“I Am African & I Can” is a women’s empowerment blog that highlights stories of black women’s struggles and success.
By Hadiatou Wann | 04/19/19
Isatu Sow was born with a blood disorder called sickle cell anemia. You wouldn't know her health condition unless she told you, because she refuses to allow an illness stymie her goals. She exudes a level of positive energy that the average person does not.
When she was 6 years old, she left Guinea, Conakry and moved to America because her health was deteriorating. It was a “life or death experience.”
“ I feel super blessed to be alive right now through everything because when in Africa I basically had a death sentence. God has removed me from an environment where I had no hope and placed me somewhere where my health wasn't a problem anymore and I could basically accomplish anything I want to if I put in the effort and time,” Isatu expressed.
Sickle cell is usually triggered by stress. It causes lack of oxygen in the body and damages organs. Isatu says that it is “something she would not wish on her worst enemy” because of its severity.
Three years ago, Isatu was hospitalized and had only a 10 percent chance of surviving. She had lost 60 percent of her memory; she could not remember where she lived, and had to relearn how to walk, talk, and shower.
During that time she stopped working, lost her house, and car. Even while hospitalized, Isatu kept a laptop beside her just so she could complete her school assignments. Within 4 months, she was able to regain control over her life. She returned to school, and bought another car.
There was a time when she was hospitalized 12 times within a year. When she was out of the hospital, she had to leave work and get IV (Intravenous therapy) fluids twice a week.
The pain is so excruciating when sickle cell is triggered. This causes the person who's affected to constantly seek medication that'll suppress the pain. Isatu says that most doctors have the misconception that they are “drug seekers” because they constantly take trips to the hospital and rely on medication.
Although she's had this disease all her life, she doesn't want to be labeled as “weak.” She sees herself as a strong, independent woman who has the right to go after her dreams just like any other person. She is currently studying Business Finance at American International University (online), and is considering a minor in political science.
Isatu's sister-in-law, Oumou Sow, describes their relationship, “It's very rare in our culture to see this kind of relationship between sisters-in-law. Isatu is the most kind, caring person I know. Her generosity is beyond limit. I remember when I had my son and I was in nursing school she took care of my son everyday for 2 semesters so I could continue to go to college and library to study.”
Sisters-in-law can get along after all.
Isatu's sister-in-law adds: “Even though I'm older than her, we talk like best friends. She's always there for me and my kids. She's loyal and trust worthy. Her sickle cell never stopped her from being or doing what she wanted. She's ambitious, smart, resilient, forgiving but above all she believes in Allah.”
On Feb. 3, 2019, Isatu married a man she knew since childhood. He watched her battle sickle cell all her life, yet vowed to spend the rest of his life loving her and helping her tackle an incurable disease.
Want to know how selfless Isatu is? When she got married, she offered her bride price to the less fortunate. Giving back is a part of her. Whenever she goes back to Guinea, she gives back in a major way. Her goal is to volunteer at an orphanage and improve healthcare in Guinea.
Isatu is a vessel of honor. She may spend a lot of time in hospitals fighting for her life, but that doesn't stop her from going after her goals. Her spirit is unmatched. She is not defined by an illness, and as long as she breathes, giving back to the less fortunate remains dear to her heart.
Welcome to Isatu Sow's World
“What God rewards you is better than what another person gives you.”
— ISATU SOW
Isatu and her father
“My dad is my number one role model. He is also my best friend and cheerleader. He comes from poverty and now has all these things going for him. If he can accomplish the things he has with few resources, then I can too.”
— ISATU SOW
Isatu and her husband on their traditional wedding
“I love him because he loves me unconditionally. He accepts every part of me knowing my condition and still willing to accept every part of me. I feel as what turns off many men about me is having an illness but through everything he stands by me. He takes me to the pharmacy, makes my doctors appointment for me and look out for me in every aspect. ”
— ISATU SOW
Isatu and her husband
Isatu and her husband
“When I was in Guinea I was getting sick and he took good care of me and made sure I was ok. We get along so well our personalities are the same and we are very transparent with each other we don’t lie to each other. Which I think communication the number one key to keeping a relationship alive. I am just glad I can be myself without any judgement.”
— ISATU SOW
“A strong woman is a woman that holds her own. She is fearless!”
— ISATU SOW
“I feel like God has a plan for me. He has given me so many chances and took care of me so well that the best thing I can do is give back and take care of his creations the best I can. Regardless how hard it gets sometimes I know God still loves me and we all have to suffer to get stronger. He gave me a great support system I feel as without my family and friends I wouldn’t be this strong.”
— ISATU SOW
“What you give is what you get.”
— ISATU SOW
“When you work hard for something, it’s better than when someone gives it to you.”
— ISATU SOW
“I put God above all. God is always in my heart. After that, it’s my family.”
— ISATU SOW
Connect with Isatu:
Instagram: @fullani_beauty
Facebook: Isatu Sow
Email: Isatu.sow@gmail.com
Read other success stories here: www.iamafricanandican.com/blog
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