Partnering with Sickle Cell Suffolk for World Sickle Cell Day was a powerful reminder of why collaboration matters. This partnership was more than an invitation to participate, it was an opportunity to stand alongside a community dedicated to awareness, education and advocacy for a condition that is too often overlooked. The event brought people together in a way that was both meaningful and joyful, creating a space where learning and celebration could coexist.

From the moment I entered the venue, there was a sense of unity that could be felt in the atmosphere. Families, advocates, young people, elders and supporters gathered with a shared purpose: to shine a light on sickle cell and to strengthen understanding across our wider community. Sickle Cell Suffolk curated an environment where information was accessible, where creativity was encouraged and where every person felt welcomed and valued.

I had the honour of delivering two prophetic poems, and this contribution felt deeply aligned with the heart of the event. Poetry, for me, is a form of ministry, a way of speaking life, truth and encouragement into spaces that need it. As I shared each piece, I was mindful of the lived experiences represented in the room: the resilience, the challenges, the victories and the unwavering strength of those affected by sickle cell. The poetry became a bridge, connecting emotion with education and spirituality with advocacy.

What stood out most was the openness of the audience. They didn’t simply listen; they engaged. They received the words with sincerity, allowing the poetry to resonate with their own journeys and understanding. This is the essence of partnership, bringing together different gifts, voices and perspectives to create something that has collective impact.

The evening was filled with genuine joy. Joy in being together. Joy in celebrating culture, creativity and community spirit. Joy in learning more about sickle cell in a way that felt empowering rather than overwhelming. Sickle Cell Suffolk struck the perfect balance between seriousness and celebration, ensuring that the event was both informative and uplifting.