Nigerian afrobeats singer Adekunle Gold has opened up about his experience living with sickle cell disease, sharing a harrowing incident where he suffered a severe crisis during a flight to Tanzania. In an interview with BBC Radio 1Xtra, Gold revealed that the crisis occurred while he was on a plane, which was supposed to land in Ethiopia for a layover. He began feeling stomach pain and cramping, which he initially attributed to food he had eaten at the airport.
Gold explained that the pain worsened, and he was unable to pass anything when he went to the toilet. The severity of his condition prompted the pilots to almost land the plane prematurely. Fortunately, they were close to their destination in Ethiopia, where Gold was taken to a hospital and required a wheelchair due to his inability to walk. The singer described this experience as a wake-up call, introducing him to a different manifestation of his condition.
According to Gold, his previous experiences with sickle cell crises were limited to stomach pain. However, during this incident, he learned that low oxygen levels can exacerbate his condition, particularly at high altitudes. The doctor attending to him advised that drinking plenty of water while on a plane can help mitigate this risk. Gold emphasized the importance of staying hydrated while flying, especially for individuals living with sickle cell disease.
The incident has made Gold more aware of his condition, particularly when traveling by air. He stressed that living with sickle cell disease requires constant vigilance, especially when it comes to oxygen levels. Gold's experience serves as a reminder to individuals with similar conditions to take necessary precautions when flying.
Adekunle Gold's decision to share his story aims to raise awareness about sickle cell disease and its effects on individuals living with the condition. By speaking openly about his experiences, he hopes to educate others and promote a better understanding of the condition. Gold's story highlights the importance of being prepared and taking preventive measures when traveling with a medical condition.
The singer's condition has not hindered his career, and he continues to be a prominent figure in the Nigerian music scene. Gold's willingness to discuss his experiences has earned him praise from fans and fellow artists alike. His openness has also sparked conversations about the importance of managing chronic conditions.
Adekunle Gold's story serves as a testament to his resilience and determination to live a normal life despite his condition. His experience has also underscored the need for individuals with sickle cell disease to prioritize their health, especially when traveling. By sharing his story, Gold aims to inspire others to take control of their health and seek support when needed.
Key points
- Adekunle Gold suffered a severe sickle cell crisis on a flight to Tanzania, which left him unable to walk and required a wheelchair upon landing.
