Black Health News: Why I Pursued a Clinical Trial for a Potential Sickle Cell Disease Cure

Danielle Lee's journey with sickle cell disease has defined much of her life. Diagnosed even before birth, she recalls numerous hospital visits throughout her childhood due to uncontrolled sickle cell crises. The intense pain often rendered her incapable of engaging in typical childhood activities like playing or attending school. As the years passed, Danielle honed her ability to identify triggers for her condition, yet sickle cell remained an omnipresent challenge. Small changes, such as temperature shifts, dehydration, or stress, could incite debilitating crises. Her mother even took a job at a local hospital for improved access to care.This condition not only imposed physical limitations but also threatened Danielle's acting aspirations. After considering a groundbreaking gene editing trial, she faced many fears but ultimately chose to pursue the treatment. Having consulted with a dedicated doctor at Cleveland Clinic, she is now over a year into the process and envisions a future free from restrictions, advocating for others facing similar struggles to seek out innovative treatments.