Sickle Cell 101
This is the shape red blood cells take in sickle cell disease.
crescent or sickle shape
Children with chronic illness often feel this emotion when missing school or activities.
sadness or frustration
This person is often a child’s strongest advocate in the hospital.
parent or caregiver
This tool helps children understand upcoming procedures.
medical play or preparation
This word describes a child’s ability to bounce back from challenges.
resilience
This organ is often damaged early in life due to sickled cells.
spleen
This feeling may arise before a painful procedure or hospitalization.
anxiety or fear
This place can offer academic and emotional support during absences.
school
This is a common method for managing pain during a crisis.
IV pain medication or PCA (patient-controlled analgesia)
This activity helps children share their story and feel empowered.
journaling or storytelling
This type of crisis causes sudden pain due to blocked blood flow.
vaso-occlusive crisis
This coping strategy involves using imagination to escape stress.
guided imagery or distraction
This type of group connects families facing similar health challenges.
a support group
This space in the hospital helps kids play and relax.
Marnie's Lounge, Multi-sensory Room, Samsung Space
This type of conversation helps normalize feelings and reduce stigma.
open dialogue or therapeutic conversation
This is the most common type of sickle cell disease.
HbSS (sickle cell anemia)
This professional helps children express and manage emotions in healthcare settings.
Child Life Specialist
This team member helps coordinate care and resources for families.
social worker
This technique helps reduce fear during needle procedures.
distraction or comfort positioning
This creative outlet helps kids express emotions nonverbally.
art or music therapy
This is the inherited pattern of sickle cell disease.
autosomal recessive
This term describes the emotional toll of repeated hospitalizations.
medical trauma or burnout
This community-based resource can help with transportation or housing.
nonprofit or advocacy organization
This plan outlines how a child prefers to be supported during procedures.
coping plan or comfort plan
This phrase means helping kids take control of their healthcare journey.
patient empowerment or self-advocacy