My journey has been long and interesting with time spent at The Sickle Cell Society and the Sickle Cell and Thalassaemia Centre before joining a small group of people living with Sickle Cell Disease who saw gaps in support for people in the community and sought to fill those gaps.This group became a registered charity - Sickle Cell Care Manchester - in 2015 and I have been the Chief Executive Officer for the charity since then. I am committed to raising awareness of this complex disease which is the fastest growing blood disorder in the UK. My role as CEO is varied and immensely interesting. A normal day can include public speaking, team management, negotiating contracts and agreements, supporting clients directly which often involves accompanying them to court for tribunals when they have experienced inadequate care or treatment.As someone who lives with Sickle Cell Disease, I have an in depth understanding of the disease although everyone's experience is different. I dedicate my life to raising awareness of the disease, encouraging people to give blood as many people with the disease need regular transfusions and providing community support directly to clients. I love the work and love the team I work with - I am very lucky in that respect.