Behind the Scenes with Tameka Beckford: Life as a Sickle Cell Mom!!

Imagine discovering that your family carries a genetic trait that changes everything. That's exactly what happened to Tameka Beckford when she learned about the sickle cell trait. In our chat, she shares the raw truths of life as a sickle cell mom, from navigating daily challenges to the importance of community support for sickle cell. Her story is one of resilience and advocacy, and it's a journey you won't want to miss. Join us as we uncover and unpack the realities and hopes behind sickle cell awareness.# Discovering the Sickle Cell Trait.

The journey of understanding sickle cell disease often begins with a surprising revelation. For Tameka Beckford and her family, this discovery marked the start of a life-changing experience.

Tameka Beckford Interview Highlights

In our chat with Tameka Beckford, she shared candid insights about her family's sickle cell journey. Her openness shed light on the realities of living with this genetic condition. Tameka's story began with a routine screening that revealed the presence of the sickle cell trait in her family. This discovery prompted a deep dive into understanding the implications for her and her loved ones.

The interview touched on the emotional rollercoaster that followed the diagnosis. Tameka spoke about the initial fear and uncertainty, followed by a determination to learn and adapt. Her experiences emphasize the importance of genetic testing and awareness. Tameka's journey from shock to advocacy serves as an inspiration for others facing similar challenges.

Early Diagnosis and Reactions

Tameka first discovered she carried the sickle cell trait after being screened and diagnosed with it. Curious about where it came from, she asked her parents if either of them had the trait. Her mother did not, but her father did—meaning she had inherited it directly from him. This knowledge gave her clarity about her own health, but it also carried new weight when it came to her children.

The early stages of a sickle cell diagnosis can be overwhelming for any family. Tameka recounted the mix of emotions that flooded in when they first learned about their daughter Tayshelice's condition.

Reactions

Initial reactions often include denial, fear, and a hunger for information. Tameka described how they quickly moved from shock to action, seeking out information about sickle cell, teaching themselves all they could about the condition, ultimately about pain management, hydration, and recognizing early signs of a crisis and/or other possible complications. This period of adjustment also brought the family closer together. They united in their commitment to providing the best care and support for Tayshelice.

Tameka emphasized the value of early diagnosis in managing the condition effectively. It allowed them to put preventive measures in place and create a supportive environment for their daughter.

When I interviewed Tameka, she mentioned that before her daughter was born, they were given the option to terminate the pregnancy at the chance that Tayshelice could be born with sickle cell. However her response was , “I’m not terminating my child. Whatever comes, we’ll deal with it when it comes, when it happens. If she’s born and the heel prick test shows she has sickle cell, or if she doesn’t, we’ll deal with it either way. We were given the option, but for us, that wasn’t even an option.”

(New-born Blood Spot Test aka Heel prick test-screens for sickle cell disease and other haemoglobin disorders.

She continued, “People often ask, now that you know you’ve got the trait and your husband’s got the trait, would you do anything differently? I’m like, no, because we’re in love, we love each other, and I wouldn’t change anything. Whatever comes, we’d have to deal with it. And now we’ve got five beautiful children together—and Tayshelice is the only one who has sickle cell disease. The only one.”

Life as a Sickle Cell Mom

Being a parent to a child with sickle cell disease comes with unique challenges and rewards. Tameka's experiences offer a window into the daily life and extraordinary moments of a sickle cell mom.

Daily Sickle Cell Challenges

The day-to-day life of a sickle cell mom involves a delicate balance of care, vigilance, and normalcy. Tameka shared insights into the routines and precautions that have become second nature to her family.

Hydration is a constant focus, with Tameka ensuring Tayshelice always has access to water. This simple act plays a crucial role in preventing pain crises and complications. Managing pain is another daily consideration. Tameka described the importance of recognizing early signs of discomfort and having a pain management plan ready.

The challenge of maintaining a normal childhood while managing a chronic condition is ever-present. Tameka spoke about finding ways to allow Tayshelice to enjoy typical kid activities while staying safe. Educating others, from teachers to friends, about sickle cell disease is an ongoing task. Tameka sees this as an opportunity to raise awareness and create a supportive community for her daughter, even at school.

When Every Day Brings Uncertainty

Every family dealing with sickle cell disease has faced moments of intense fear and uncertainty. Tameka bravely shared one of their most challenging experiences, highlighting the resilience required in these situations.

She told me that one of the hardest parts of being a sickle cell mom is living with constant fear. It never really goes away. Even on good days, when her daughter seems fine, there’s always that worry in the back of her mind—because with sickle cell, everything can change in an instant. A simple infection, a sudden change in the weather, or even something as ordinary as a cold can spiral into hospital stays and serious complications.

As Tameka explained, “You’re always going to be worried. Even when the child is not ill, you’re still going to be worried—because you know that child has sickle cell, and anything can change in the blink of an eye.”

A Parents Worst Nightmare

That fear became reality when her daughter was just eight years old. Tameka described how, in the middle of a cold January, her little girl suddenly seemed distant, as though she couldn’t hear what was being said. Then, within hours, she lost movement on the left side of her body.

There was no pain—just silence, confusion, and the terrifying sense that something was deeply wrong. Rushing her to the hospital, Tameka and her husband received the news no parent ever wants to hear: their daughter had suffered not one, but two major strokes. Doctors were shocked she was even alive. Tameka remembers breaking down in tears, clinging to her husband, overwhelmed by both fear and gratitude.

What followed was a long road of physio and hospital visits, but slowly—miraculously—their daughter regained her mobility and hearing. Looking back, Tameka calls her recovery nothing less than God’s grace and a testament to her child’s strength.

Tameka emphasized how such experiences, though difficult, have made them more prepared and united as a family in facing future challenges.

Sickle Cell Strong!!

Tameka spoke with deep admiration for the strength of sickle cell patients, especially her daughter. She explained how their tolerance for pain is on another level: “One thing I’ve learned is that they can cope with pain in ways most of us couldn’t imagine. When a patient says their pain is at a five, that would probably be a ten for me. And when Tayshelice says her pain is at a ten, I know it’s time to take her straight to the hospital—you just know it.”

She went on to share how proud she feels of people living with sickle cell, reflecting on the daily battles they face. “Honestly, I’m proud of people with sickle cell, because the things they go through—the pain, the discomfort—if people only knew. If they only knew.”

Community Support for Sickle Cell Awareness

The power of community in managing sickle cell disease cannot be overstated. Tameka's journey highlights the crucial role that awareness and support play in improving lives affected by this condition.

Importance of Raising Awareness

Raising awareness about sickle cell disease is a passion for Tameka. She believes that increased understanding can lead to better care, research, and support for those affected. She spoke passionately about why advocacy and awareness are so important in the sickle cell community. For her, it isn’t just about sharing her daughter’s story—it’s about helping others understand the reality of sickle cell and how much support families truly need.

She explained that having a supportive community makes all the difference, especially during difficult times. By speaking openly about their journey, she believes she and Tayshelice can shine a light on what families go through, encouraging others to stand with them. “If we keep speaking and keep spreading awareness, people will know how to help us and support us. But if we don’t speak up, how will they know?” she asked.

Her words carried both determination and hope. She pointed out that the sickle cell community is growing stronger, with more people raising their voices and making the condition known.

For Tameka, this progress is a positive step forward. “We’ll definitely get through it,” she said with conviction. “And I just see, the sickle cell community is getting bigger, and people are spreading awareness more, and it’s getting known and all that. So, that is good. That is a positive. That is a plus.” To her, every conversation, every shared story, and every act of advocacy is a way of building understanding, breaking down stigma, and ensuring that no family faces sickle cell alone.

Educating and Empowering the Community

Tameka uses her platform to educate others about the realities of living with sickle cell disease. She shares informative content that dispels myths and provides accurate information.

By speaking openly about their experiences, Tameka hopes to reduce stigma and encourage early testing. She emphasizes that knowledge is power in managing this condition. Awareness efforts also focus on the importance of blood donations. Tameka explains how regular transfusions are life-saving for many with sickle cell disease, including Tayshelice.

Through her advocacy, Tameka aims to inspire more research and improved treatments. She believes that greater awareness can lead to breakthroughs that will benefit the entire sickle cell community. Collaborating with healthcare providers is a key aspect of community building. Tameka works to foster positive relationships with doctors and nurses to ensure the best care for her daughter.

Through her efforts, Tameka hopes to create a world where no family facing sickle cell disease feels alone. She believes in the power of community to make life better for all affected by this condition.

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Tameka’s story is a powerful reminder of the resilience and courage found in families living with sickle cell disease. While the journey can be challenging, her experiences show that love, community, and advocacy can make a real difference. To everyone reading this, remember that even small actions can have a huge impact. One of the most meaningful ways to support families like Tameka’s is by donating blood. Regular blood donations save lives, help manage crises, and provide hope for children and adults living with sickle cell. By stepping forward, you can be a part of their journey, offering both life-saving support and a tangible way to show care. Every donation matters—help make a difference today.

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