There was a group, named The Incredibles, which spoke about Sickle Cell Disease. This group addressed both the trait and the disease in their presentation. I found it interesting when they mentioned that the disease developed as a way to fight malaria. The body had developed the sickled cells that the mosquitoes would not be able to ingest. I also found it interesting, since I could tell that the group members were working from personal interest. These were members who had family members that had to deal with Sickle Cell Anemia. They discussed how some days were good for them, and how some days were bad. I know from Biology that the disease is caused by one change in a nitrogenous base in the DNA, and it is interesting that the one minor change could cause a disease that puts people through so much pain. This is a disease that has been known to be prevalent in the African American community, and has caused many people much pain. I would actually want to join an effort to help people who had to deal with this, because how could I know if I had the trait for it? Anyone could have the Sickle Cell trait and the best thing for a person to do is find out if they are one of the people that has the trait. It would probably be in my best interest to find out if I do have the trait, and maybe I can continue to make decisions regarding this disease in the future.
Shayna McCormack
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