Shmedic + Sickle Cell Disease
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Shmedic aims to raise awareness of sickle cell disease through storytelling and performance, recognising both the medical reality of the condition and the human experience of living with it.
What Is Sickle Cell Disease?
Sickle cell disease is caused by an inherited abnormality of haemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen around the body.
In sickle cell disease:
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Red blood cells can become rigid and sickle-shaped rather than round
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These cells break down more quickly, leading to chronic anaemia
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Sickled cells can block blood vessels, causing episodes of severe pain known as pain crises
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Reduced blood flow can damage organs over time
Sickle cell disease is genetic and lifelong. It is not contagious.
Who Is Affected?
Sickle cell disease is more common in people with African, Caribbean, Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, and South Asian heritage, though it can affect people from any background.
In the UK, sickle cell disease is one of the most common genetic conditions. Many individuals require regular medical care, hospital admissions, and ongoing support throughout their lives.
Despite this, sickle cell disease remains under-recognised and under-discussed, contributing to stigma and inequities in care.
Treatment and Blood Transfusions
Stem cell or bone marrow transplants are the only cure for sickle cell disease, but they're not done very often because of the significant risks involved.
Treatment focuses on managing symptoms, preventing complications, and improving quality of life.
For many people with sickle cell disease, blood transfusions are a vital part of treatment. They can:
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Reduce the risk of stroke
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Treat severe anaemia
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Prevent or manage complications
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Improve overall wellbeing​
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Because blood types need to be closely matched, especially for people receiving regular transfusions, there is a particular need for donors from Black and minority ethnic communities.
Sickle Cell Support and Charities
The following organisations provide advocacy, education, and support for people affected by sickle cell disease and their families:
Sickle Cell Society
Anthony Nolan
Blood Donation: How You Can Help
Donating blood saves lives and is essential to the care of people living with sickle cell disease.
You can find out more about blood donation, eligibility, and how to register here:
NHS Blood and Transplant https://www.blood.co.uk
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Even one donation can make a meaningful difference.
Why Shmedic Raises Awareness
Writer and creator of Shmedic, Sara Otung, is passionate about helping those who are affected by sickle cell disease, and has spent years as a doctor volunteering and campaigning to increase awareness. Shmedic is an extension of that vocation.
The reality is, Sickle cell disease sits at the intersection of medicine, inequality, identity, and care. Through Shmedic, we aim to:
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Increase public understanding of sickle cell disease
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Challenge stigma and misconceptions
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Highlight the importance of blood donation
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Centre the voices and experiences of those affected
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Create space for empathy, conversation, and visibility
By bringing sickle cell disease into creative and cultural spaces, Shmedic seeks to reach audiences beyond traditional health settings and contribute to a more informed, compassionate public conversation.