The Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre (SLBMC) has received a significant educational donation aimed at strengthening patient-centred care for individuals living with sickle cell disease.

The Sickle Cell Association of Antigua & Barbuda has donated 165 copies of Voices of Sickle Cell to the country’s lone public hospital. The books are intended for distribution among doctors and nurses at SLBMC to help deepen clinical understanding through lived experiences, patient perspectives, and best-practice approaches to sickle cell care.

The Association, which has supported individuals and families affected by sickle cell disease for more than a decade, said the donation is part of its ongoing effort to bridge the gap between medical treatment and the real-life experiences of patients.

Voices of Sickle Cell is authored by Dr. Edda Hadeed, President of the Sickle Cell Association of Antigua & Barbuda. The book brings together personal accounts from local and international sickle cell patients and their families, alongside contributions from medical professionals and expert insights from internationally recognised specialists.

Dr. Hadeed said the publication was created to address a critical gap in understanding between healthcare providers and patients.

“As medical providers, we care deeply about our patients and want to do the best by them, but it is not always easy to fully appreciate someone else’s lived reality,” she explained. “Voices of Sickle Cell brings together real experiences from patients, families, and clinicians, offering insight into the daily challenges of living with sickle cell disease while also promoting best practices in care. We are proud to place this resource in the hands of SLBMC’s nurses and doctors, who serve our sickle cell community every day.”

Medical Director at SLBMC, Dr. Shivon Belle-Jarvis, welcomed the donation, describing it as an example of effective collaboration between community advocacy groups and the healthcare system.

“This donation is a powerful example of what’s possible when community advocacy and healthcare come together with a shared purpose,” Dr. Belle-Jarvis said. “The Sickle Cell Association of Antigua & Barbuda has been a steadfast partner for more than a decade, and Voices of Sickle Cell will help our doctors and nurses deepen their understanding of the lived experiences behind the diagnosis. That perspective is essential to delivering truly compassionate, patient-centred care, and we are grateful for this meaningful contribution.”

SLBMC noted that initiatives such as this enhance the hospital’s capacity to deliver holistic care and highlight the important role community organisations play in supporting national healthcare outcomes.

The book is also being promoted as a meaningful holiday gift, offering readers insight into the realities of sickle cell disease through compassion and storytelling. Voices of Sickle Cell is available on Amazon, with proceeds supporting the Sickle Cell Association of Antigua & Barbuda’s work in education, patient support, and community awareness.