D’krizia Bartlett: Warrior And Founder Of Sickletalk

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NASSAU, BAHAMAS – A young woman diagnosed with a potentially debilitating condition has transformed one of the darkest chapters of her life into a powerful mission of hope, becoming an advocate for those living with sickle cell disease.

When D’Krizia Bartlett was just three years old, her mother made countless trips to the emergency room trying to understand why her daughter was in constant pain. Doctors initially dismissed the symptoms as colic, recommending milk changes and other small fixes. But it wasn’t until a visit to a pediatric hematologist that Bartlett was diagnosed with sickle cell anemia, specifically HbSS, the most severe form of the disease.

Sickle cell anemia is part of a group of inherited disorders that affect the shape of red blood cells, which are responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body. The misshapen cells can cause anemia, episodes of pain, swelling in the hands and feet, and frequent infections.

For much of her childhood, Bartlett spent days or even weeks hospitalized, often in excruciating pain. At times, doctors warned her mother to prepare for the worst. Yet despite the challenges, Bartlett kept her illness private from many around her.

That changed in 2021 when she endured a near-death hospitalization that required a blood transfusion. Flyers circulated requesting blood donations on her behalf, revealing for the first time to many friends and acquaintances that she lived with sickle cell disease.

Out of that painful experience came purpose. Alongside her mother, Bartlett founded SickleTalk, a community organization aimed at encouraging open, honest conversations about sickle cell disease and educating the next generation on the importance of testing and awareness.

“I want to be the voice for the voiceless,” Bartlett says, “and ensure that the next generation has the awareness, education, and tools that I didn’t have.”

Through advocacy and outreach, Bartlett continues to inspire others, proving that even in pain, there is power and purpose.