Doctors said I won't live to be 20 - Lady with genotype SS in her 40s

A lady in her 40s with genotype SS has narrated how doctors told her mother that she would never live to be 20.

The lady identified as Devaan took to Twitter with her encouraging story, revealing how she lived beyond expectation to the point that she became a mother.

Read below.

"I am genotype SS. Growing up I was so used to being desperately sick and having blood transfusions that I thought it was something all children experienced. I grew up listening to doctors tell my mum not to have high hopes I might not live to be 20. My parents accepted their fate.

Today I’m in my 40s. If my parents were alive they’d be grand parents. I have had a career spanning broadcasting, the development sector and politics. All of which I excelled at. I’m married. I’m still alive. It has NOT BEEN AN EASY ROAD not for me or loved ones. But...

I DO NOT HATE OR RESENT my parents for having me???? Despite the pains and tears I’m glad to be here and go through this journey. I am genotype SS. Doesn’t mean those without it ALWAYS enjos perfect health and no other challenges. In fact give me Sickle Cell over a number of other

health challenges. I’d rather not be genotype SS but I am so...No shaking. ???? Now. My advice to all young adults is this: Know your genotype early and be sure (do it more than once in reliable labs). Get an education about the health implications associated with whichever

...one you happen to be. When you meet people you think you might want a relationship with, start the conversation EARLY. If however you are already deeply committed to someone BEFORE the genotype issue comes up, seek PROFESSIONAL COUNSELING from medical personnel, clergy etc

Take an informed decision. While things are not always bleak in a home with an SS child or children, caring for a sick family at the best of times is stressful both for the patient and the caregiver. Bear this in mind. You don’t want to watch your child writhing around in pain

...without relief sometimes for weeks or becoming physically challenged. However my emphasis remains AVAIL yourself of every information you need to have then make an informed decision. God help us all. Love always"

I am genotype SS. Growing up I was so used to being desperately sick and having blood transfusions that I thought it was something all children experienced. I grew up listening to doctors tell my mum not to have high hopes I might not live to be 20. My parents accepted their fate

— Devaan (@SweetMOMdee) January 7, 2020