05/14/2026
Sickle Cell Foundation of Greater, Montgomery, Inc.
Human Interest Story of one of our team member’s child of the Foundation that shared this story with us.
A true story of resilience, faith, and determination—shared to raise awareness and bring hope to every family that is affected by sickle cell disease.
Monica R. VanDiver, Executive Director
"I may have Sickle Cell Disease, but Sickle Cell Disease does not have me. My name is Dwyn-Shae Freeman. I am 17 years old, born and raised in Montgomery, Alabama. I am the fourth child in my family. I have an older sister and a brother, and I had a sister who passed away from this disease before I was born. I also have two nieces and two nephews, along with a loving mother and father. I am a senior graduate of George Washington Carver High School.
I attend Mount Zion AME Zion Church, where Reverend Claude A. Shuford is the pastor. I sing in the youth choir and participate in the dance ministry. I have also had the opportunity to serve in the church food bank ministry, helping provide food to those in need. Serving others has taught me compassion, responsibility, and the importance of giving back to my community.
Living with sickle cell disease has been one of the greatest challenges of my life, but it has never defined who I am.
At just six years old, I experienced acute chest syndrome and had to be airlifted to Children’s Hospital in Birmingham, Alabama. I was in critical condition, fighting for my life at an age when most children are just learning how to ride bikes. That moment could have broken me—but it did not.
Between the ages of 13 and 16, I was rushed to the hospital multiple times with signs of pneumonia in my lungs. Each time, I had to pause my normal routine; but every time, I came back stronger, more determined, and more focused on my future.
At 17, I was admitted to the hospital with severe abdominal pain and learned that I needed my gallbladder removed. After receiving multiple blood transfusions, I left the hospital changed—but not defeated.
Most recently, I endured an intense pain crisis that led to another hospital stay. During that time, I was visited by child-life specialists and a medical therapy dog named Sydney. Moments like these are exhausting, painful, and unpredictable. However, through every setback, I have developed resilience, patience, and inner strength. Sickle Cell Disease is something I live with—but it does not control me.
These experiences have shaped me into someone who refuses to give up, no matter how difficult life becomes.
They have taught me to appreciate every moment, push through adversity, and remain determined in the face of challenges. More importantly, they have inspired me to achieve my future goals.
As I pursue higher education, I plan to study in a field where I can make a difference in the lives of others; particularly those facing health challenges like my own. I want to use my experiences to encourage, support, and advocate for individuals living with chronic illnesses. Whether through healthcare, community outreach, or mentorship; my goal is to be a voice of hope for those who feel limited by their circumstances.
As I move forward into the next chapter of my life, I carry not only my story but also the strength it has given me. I am not defined by my condition, I am defined by my determination, my resilience, and my desire to help others. I plan to attend college in the fall, and one thing I know for certain is this—I may have Sickle Cell Disease, but Sickle Cell Disease does not have me."
If my story moved you, please like, share, and talk about sickle cell disease—awareness starts with all of us.
