ADEKUNLE GOLD REVEALS LIFELONG BATTLE WITH SICKLE CELL DISEASE, INSPIRES SURVIVORS WITH MESSAGE OF HOPE
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Award-winning Nigerian singer, Adekunle Gold, has opened up about his lifelong struggle with sickle cell disease, revealing how the condition shaped his childhood, tested his faith, and strengthened his determination to succeed.
The “5 Star” crooner, born Adekunle Almoruf Kosoko, disclosed that he was diagnosed with sickle cell disease at birth and had to endure several physical and emotional challenges while growing up.
In a heartfelt message shared with fans, Adekunle Gold recounted how the disease made his early years extremely difficult.
“I was born with sickle cell disease. It was life and death — physical, mental, and financial. It was tough, painful and frustrating,” he said.
The singer noted that he often felt isolated as a child due to the restrictions imposed by his health condition. He could not play in the rain or participate freely in outdoor activities like other children.
“The nights were painful and lonely — just me, God, and my thoughts. The pain and shivers were unbearable,” he recalled.
Adekunle Gold said one of his most severe health crises occurred when he was 20 years old.
“One of the most intense crises I had was at 20. I remember lying in bed in the middle of the night asking for an end to it all. That was when everything changed for me,” he said.
Despite the pain, he continued to push through, refusing to let the condition define him. Adekunle Gold revealed that he had faced stigma and criticism after publicly speaking about his illness.
“When I talked about it in my song ‘5 Star,’ I saw a lot of tweets from people attacking and mocking me. They called me names, but I didn’t let that stop me,” he said.
He added that his journey with sickle cell disease had made him stronger and more determined to achieve his dreams.
“If I can do it, you can too. I was born with sickle cell, and all my life I’ve fought with it. But I’m thankful I’ve been able to manage it. I’m everywhere now, performing on stage, and I don’t fall sick often,” he said.
The singer, who is married to fellow music star Simi, said living with the condition has taught him resilience, discipline, and gratitude.
“This disease has taught me resilience. It made me tough and disciplined. It built my character,” he added.
Now an international star, Adekunle Gold has become an advocate for people living with sickle cell disease. During a recent concert, he dedicated a performance to “sickle cell warriors,” encouraging them not to give up on their dreams.
“To every sickle cell warrior out there, no matter what you are going through, you can do it,” he said.
Adekunle Gold also urged Nigerians to show kindness and empathy toward people living with health challenges.
“If you know anyone going through physical, mental, or health struggles, be kind and show compassion. You never know what they are dealing with privately,” he appealed.
Sickle cell disease is a major public health concern in Nigeria, which has one of the highest rates globally. Experts estimate that about 150,000 babies are born with the condition in the country every year.
Through his openness, Adekunle Gold hopes to raise awareness about the disease and inspire others living with it to remain hopeful.
“If you are living with sickle cell, know that it doesn’t define you. Don’t let it limit your dreams. Spread your wings and dream big,” he said.
Adekunle Gold’s story serves as a powerful reminder of courage and perseverance — a testament that even in the face of lifelong struggle, hope and determination can lead to triumph.
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