Born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to two loving parents. They had no idea of what a painful journey we all would be on. I grew up in the hospital almost as much as I was at home. There was a few things that I had to overcome aside from the hereditary blood disease. Letters and numbers appeared backwards and jumbled together. Some would call this dyslexia but, it wasn’t bad enough to diagnose what was wrong. Besides, I fought my way through it. A strong mind can overwhelm the greatest of adversaries.

Having nothing else but time and a strong need to be distracted from pain, I focused my attention on learning. Becoming a brain. It was in camp what was held strictly for those with Sickle Cell Anemia, I was given some advice that would shape me into a powerful young man. “In order to be a man, you have to be well rounded.” Those words still haunt me. Giving me a nudge when I’m not in the mood to get up, or can’t seem to find the time to study or pray.

Taking everything that I was told seriously and literally, my social life was something of a battle itself. But I managed just fine. When someone speaks with my best interests in mind, no matter if it’s criticism or advice, I listen to understand what is being said. Maybe I can learn and grow from it.

That’s the difference between me and other people. The truth hurts sometimes. But that pain is nothing compared to what I felt throughout my lifetime. Hurt me if you can. It helps me either way.

When there is someone in need helping them gives me joy, even if I am in physical pain. It’s like God shined a light on me for a little while. Being a part of taking someone’s pain away shows how everything works for the good of The Most High. One pain helping to take away another. Fighting fire with fire comes to mind.