Nigerian singer Adekunle Gold has opened up in an emotional and deeply honest account of his lifelong battle with sickle cell disease, offering renewed inspiration to fans while shedding light on the realities of living with the condition.
The award-winning artist shared that although he has been on treatment since childhood, he still experiences painful crises from time to time. Despite the challenges, he expressed gratitude for how far he has come and for the strength that has kept him moving forward.
According to him, sickle cell has been part of his story from a very young age, forcing him to endure nights of intense pain and moments where he felt completely powerless. Yet those years, he noted, helped build his resilience, discipline, and deep appreciation for life.
He recalled particularly heartbreaking childhood moments, including a time his mother carried him to the hospital during a severe crisis, a memory he says remains one of the most defining chapters of his life.
Now at 38, Adekunle Gold says his crises are milder and less frequent, thanks to better medical care, healthier lifestyle choices, and increased awareness about managing the illness. “I still have crises once in a while but not as bad as when I was a child,” he said, adding that consistent access to treatment has made a world of difference.
Living stronger, inspiring others
The singer explained that his struggles shaped both his character and his music, giving him motivation to push boundaries and live intentionally. “Growing up this way teaches you strength,” he remarked, emphasizing that the illness did not define him—it fueled him.
He encouraged fans living with chronic illnesses never to give up on their dreams, stressing that tough beginnings do not have to limit one's destiny.
Raising awareness and saving future lives
Beyond sharing his personal journey, Adekunle Gold used the moment to raise awareness about sickle cell disease and the importance of knowing one’s genotype. He strongly cautioned Nigerians—especially couples—to take genotype compatibility seriously to reduce the spread of the condition.
He expressed concern that despite Nigeria having one of the highest sickle cell rates in the world, conversations and public education about the disease remain insufficient. “My vision is to make more noise about it,” he stated, calling on government agencies, healthcare bodies, and individuals to amplify awareness and support affected families.
Watch the emotional moment below…
"I still have crises once in a while, but not as bad as I had it when I was a child…"
Adekunle Gold speaks candidly about living with sickle cell. pic.twitter.com/piMudobwGX
— @𝗼𝗻𝗲𝗷𝗼𝗯𝗹𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗯𝗼𝘆 (@OneJoblessBoy) October 30, 2025
Through his story, Adekunle Gold continues to inspire millions—not just with his music, but with his courage, vulnerability, and unwavering message that strength often comes from life’s hardest moments.