Jahmari Halstead has dealt with Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) since he was born. Although medication has helped manage his pain, it’s not been a cure.
Now, a year after a Stem Cell Transplant, his symptoms have practically gone away. The donor was none other than his older brother, Jahvaughn Halstead.
Their father explained that it’s been a learning process for everyone involved.
“We were able to share information with others, even with the doctors. Sometimes, when [Jahmari is] in the hospital, there are certain things they might not pick up. And we say Oh, you know, check this, you need to check that,” said Deron Halstead.
“This is a remarkable achievement for the hospital, for our program. And obviously it gives access to healthcare that was not available before,” said Dr. Uday Deotare. He and the team at London Health Sciences Centre (LHSC) have been working with the Halstead family since Jahmari was 17.
The doctor and the family’s time and effort have paid off. Stem Cell Transplants are now being offered at LHSC for eligible adults with SCD.
It’s a big change, as in the past, those seeking the treatment option have had to travel outside the city.
Medical Director Dr. Ziad Solh said another common challenge is finding a matching sibling to donate. Luckily, Jahmari and Jahvaughn were ideal candidates.
SCD disproportionately affects the Black community and other ethnic minorities. Dr. Solh added:
“The history of sickle cell care is tied with anti-Black racism and discrimination, and LHSC being able to offer this treatment in our region is a demonstration of how we are working towards equitable access to care and health equity for those with this condition.”
It’s another step LHSC is taking to create a more accessible healthcare system. Plans already executed include the establishment of a Black Health team and policies designed to support Indigenous patients.
