C.J. Acquaye’s family is proving that a legacy can live on through giving.
C.J. was known for his strength, his love for people and a laugh his family will never forget. He also lived with sickle cell disease, relying on donated blood throughout his life.
His family and friends now carry forward his passion for helping others, making sure C.J.’s story continues to make a difference.
Living With Sickle Cell Disease
Sickle cell disease is an inherited blood disorder that causes red blood cells to become hard, sticky and sickle-shaped. These cells can block blood flow, causing severe pain and other serious complications.
C.J. received blood for years, including regular exchange transfusions that replaced his red blood cells with healthy donor cells. His family saw firsthand what those donations meant for him.
“What a blessing it was that people donated so we could see him every year, year after year,” his cousin Jackie said.
C.J. wanted to use his own experience to bring more awareness to sickle cell disease. Today, his loved ones are helping continue what he started by sharing his story, including the devastating effects of sickle cell disease, and by advocating for blood donation.
“The blood drive is. some sort of a healing tool for me," his mom Mina said. “Because when C.J. was alive, he looked great because of blood.”
