A very cute and interesting audiobook, explaining Sickle Cell Disease in a simple manner. I think this would be great for children who themselves have Sickle Cell Disease, and other kids surrounding them, if not everyone just for awareness. I personally enjoyed the real-life story of a patient with big ambitions and how she slowly achieved milestones with consistency and planning. It shows that we can control our lives even when overcome with problems. The story does have a very positive outlook on disability, which I appreciate seeing that it is meant for children to inform them. 10/10 recommend.

"My Life Beyond Sickle Cell Disease" is an inspiring journey that grabs your heart from the first chapter. Hey Gee and Golden Ella share their powerful Mayo Clinic patient story with authenticity and resilience, making it impossible not to root for them. The narrative is expertly narrated by Arischa Conner, who brings an extra layer of emotion to the storytelling.

This book is not just about battling Sickle Cell Disease; it's a testament to the strength of the human spirit. The authors paint a vivid picture of their struggles, triumphs, and the unwavering support they found at Mayo Clinic. Conner's narration adds a personal touch, making the audiobook an immersive experience.

The storytelling is honest and conversational, making it accessible to a wide audience. It's a tale of hope, determination, and the importance of a supportive healthcare system. "My Life Beyond Sickle Cell Disease" is more than a patient's story—it's a celebration of life, love, and resilience that can emerge from the darkest moments. Get ready for an emotional rollercoaster that leaves you inspired and grateful for the strength found within the human spirit.

Thank you Dreamscape Media, Mayo Clinic Press for accepting my request to read and review My Life Beyond Sickle Cell Disease.

Narrator: Arischa Conner

Stars: 3

The audiobook is around 15 minutes in length. Most of the time is encouraging the child to never give up, a teaching for all kids. Sickle cell disease is minimally explained. I didn't connect with the narrator. All-in-all I was disappointed. I'm not sure how I could use this.

I have mixed feelings about this audiobook. I like that it tells the story of Golden Ella, who has sickle cell disease, and it combines her lived experience story with an age-appropriate educational explanation of the condition. However, I quickly found that the narrative focuses heavily on "positive thinking" to "overcome" the symptoms. I agree that staying positive and reducing stress is obviously a good part of living well with a medical condition or disability. It just feels a bit dismissive; almost with the implication that if you can't/won't "overcome" your condition, then it's just because you're not "concentrating" enough. It also worries me that this is one of at least 9 books in Hey Gee's "My Life Beyond..." series. Other titles include autism, diabetes, depression, and leukaemia. I worry that these will also fall into the "think the problem away" trap. Perhaps I'm too cynical. Nevertheless, I do like the practical advice about tackling dehydration, eating well, diversifying your hobbies, and other wellbeing tips. The key terms at the end are also helpful.

I received a free copy of this audiobook from the publisher (Dreamscape Media) for review purposes.

I was very excited to see a book written about sickle cell as I have both a student and friend who lives with this disease. So you can imagine how disappointed I was to find out that the book was written not only by a person who does not have sickle cell but by a race that could not contract the disease.

The Mayo Clinic had a great opportunity to both educate individuals as well as provide equity to a BIPOC individual. Yes, they have the facts about the illness but they lack the full experience by not allowing someone of color let alone someone whom lives with sickle cell to wrote the book.

Golden Ella and Arabella’s stories are shared in this book about sickle cell disease. They serve as reminders to not let a disease inhibit your life. Sickle cell can affect you as young as from birth. This book is telling everyone living with a disease that they can still be vibrant, active, and capable people

This book tells the story of a real-life Mayo Clinic patient with Sickle cell disease who wants to be a high school track athlete.
She works together with her health care team and her family, along with techniques for self-care, to find success on and off the track.
Sickle cell disease affects the red blood cells. These cells are shaped like crescent moons rather than being round. They can get stuck in the blood vessels which can slow the blood flow. As a result, there can be extreme pain.