Hi everyone,

My name is Teka, and I’m sharing my story with you with both vulnerability and hope.

I was born with sickle cell disease, an inherited condition that causes my red blood cells to become hard, sticky, and shaped like crescents. These cells break down faster than normal—leading to chronic anemia—and can block blood flow, causing severe pain, organ damage, and life-threatening complications.

Right now, I’m in the hospital waiting for a liver transplant. I’ve been approved and am on the list, but the timing of a match is uncertain—it could happen at any moment, or take longer than expected.

This journey has taken me away from my family and my ability to work. While I do have health insurance, I’ve exhausted my paid time off and short-term disability. By next month, my FMLA leave will also run out. That uncertainty weighs heavily, because I’m not just responsible for myself—I’m a mother and my grandmother’s caretaker. People depend on me.

I want to be clear: I’m not asking for a handout. I’m asking for a temporary hand up.

I’ve worked hard to build a life I’m proud of. I’m a college graduate, a registered nurse, currently pursuing my master’s degree, and a business owner. I fully intend to return to the work I love. After my transplant—which is expected within the next couple of weeks—my recovery could take up to six months before I’m cleared to work again.

During that time, I will still have ongoing medical treatments not fully covered by insurance, along with everyday living expenses. While my village has shown up for me in incredible ways—and continues to do so—it’s not realistic to expect anyone to carry this alone.

That’s why I’m reaching out to my extended community.

If you’re able to support me—whether through a donation, a share, or simply keeping me in your thoughts and prayers—it would mean more than I can put into words. Every bit of support helps create stability for me and my family during this critical time.

I believe deeply in resilience, in community, and in faith. The average life expectancy for someone with sickle cell is 40–60 years, and I am determined to outlive that—God willing.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story, and for any way you choose to show support.

With gratitude,

Teka