Sickle Cell Anemia

Julian Tolbert is a 10-year-old from Birmingham, Alabama, who was diagnosed with sickle cell anemia at just five months old. Since then, his life has been filled with challenges that most children never have to face.

Sickle cell anemia is a genetic blood disorder that affects hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. Small blood vessels can become blocked, reducing oxygen flow, causing pain and damage to organs.

Under the care of his hematology and surgical teams, Julian had his spleen removed at the age of two. Since birth, he has been hospitalized more than 50 times. Despite everything he has endured, Julian continues to show remarkable strength and resilience.

Today, he receives ongoing care for hypertension, chronic pain, frequent headaches, and gastrointestinal complications from a multidisciplinary team that includes Brandi Purnell, DNP and Shani Johnson Anum, MD, in hematology, as well as Chinenye Dike, MD, in gastroenterology. To maintain his health, Julian receives blood transfusions every three weeks.

“Even with these ongoing medical challenges, Julian is a joyful and determined young boy. He loves playing basketball and baseball, enjoying video games, and spending time with his friends and family,” said his mother, Kewanna “Tootie” Adley. “He has strength and determination even during hard times.”

Throughout his journey, the medical staff caring for Julian has been supportive and compassionate.

“They care for him not just as a patient, but as a child who deserves to smile, laugh, and feel safe,” added Tootie. “Nurses are specially trained to comfort children during procedures, helping calm their fears and ease anxiety.”

For families like Julian’s, where hospital visits are a regular part of life, Adley believes that having a team that is compassionate, knowledgeable, and familiar with his case provides invaluable peace of mind.