On World Sickle Cell Day, Nigerian music star Adekunle Gold stepped beyond the spotlight to champion a cause close to his heart. The artist, known for his soulful vocals and hit tracks, announced the launch of 5 Star Care, a new initiative under the Adekunle Gold Foundation aimed at supporting individuals living with sickle cell disorder.
For Adekunle Gold, this moment is deeply personal. In 2022, he shared an emotional email with fans, opening up for the first time about his journey with sickle cell anemia—a hereditary blood disorder that has shaped much of his life. In the heartfelt message, he described the years of physical pain, emotional strain, and mental battles, as well as his determination to rise above the challenges. That honesty resonated widely, and it became the emotional backbone of his empowering single, “5 Star.”
Now, he’s transforming that vulnerability into action.
“Today is World Sickle Cell Day,” he said in a video message shared online, “and today, I’m proud to announce something that’s deeply personal to me.” That announcement was 5 Star Care—a program designed to make sure that those living with sickle cell not only feel seen but are also given tangible support.
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The initiative’s first major step is to provide free health insurance to 1,000 people with sickle cell in Lagos State. It’s a major milestone for the Adekunle Gold Foundation and a potentially life-changing move for those affected by the condition, many of whom face not just health challenges but also significant financial strain when accessing care.
Sickle cell disease affects the shape of red blood cells, causing them to become rigid and crescent-shaped. These misshapen cells can clog blood vessels, leading to excruciating pain episodes, fatigue, and other serious complications. Despite how widespread the condition is in Nigeria, public conversation and support around it often fall short.
By putting his voice and his resources—behind 5 Star Care, Adekunle Gold is helping to shift that narrative. It’s not just about charity. It’s about visibility, dignity, and care for a community that is too often overlooked.
In launching this program, Adekunle Gold isn’t just celebrating World Sickle Cell Day. He’s setting a new standard for what it means to turn personal pain into public purpose.
And for many living with sickle cell, that gesture is more than a lifeline. It’s a reminder that they, too, are 5 Star.
