Episode 3: My Fight Was Hers First: A Mother’s Strength, Sickle Cell, and the Village That Raised Me

When I was just nine months old, my mother ran to save my life—literally. No transportation, no warning—just her intuition, God’s grace, and a family friend who happened to be in the path. This is the story of how I was diagnosed with sickle cell anemia in Malanje, Angola—and how my mom’s strength, faith, and community gave me a fighting chance.In this deeply personal episode, I reflect on childhood memories of walking miles, traditional healing, mulberry-stained hands, and the village of women (and siblings!) who supported me. From my grandmothers to my second mom, from herbal remedies to laughter in the dirt roads—this one is a love letter to the caregivers who never gave up.If you're navigating chronic illness, caring for a loved one, or healing from the inside out—I want you to know: you're not a burden. You are a miracle.🎧 Listen now to Joy in the Journey and share with someone who needs this reminder.