Hospitalization and Related Issues

Many children are hospitalized as a result of the complications of sickle cell disease. Hospitalization is a hard time for children and parents of children with sickle cell disease

The infant/toddler or small child will need constant advocacy. The parents are expected to provide this for their child until they can advocate for themselves. Some your adults find it difficult to navigate the system and advocate for themselves.

The school age child, on average, will miss 29 days of school per year due to hospitalizations and home recovery. This creates a dilemma for the children, parents, social workers and educators.

Financial support to these families becomes necessary because of the economic hardship that often accompanies hospitalization. Meals and parking are two of the most commonly reported expenses that strain the budget while a child is hospitalized.

Many families experience employment related issues such as medical leave. some have limited understanding of their rights and responsibilities during these trying times.