Smiles of support

Karen Neville

Taryn Connor tells us about the work of Reading-based Cianna’s Smile which raises awareness of and support for all affected by Sickle Cell

At Cianna’s Smile, our mission is to improve the lives of children, young people and families impacted by Sickle Cell. 

Last year our work was recognised with The King’s Award for Voluntary Service and featured on BBC Children in Need. 

To help spread the word we are holding a key fundraising event on May 17th with Cianna’s Smile Soirée Sickle Cell Awareness Gala at the Hilton Reading. The gala will bring together community leaders, healthcare professionals and supporters from various sectors to celebrate the charity’s achievements and help raise funds of £30,000 to expand our services and outreach efforts. 

Through education, empowerment, and community engagement, we strive to reduce the stigma associated with Sickle Cell and ensure that those living with the condition have the resources and opportunities they need to thrive.  

The charity was established by Hayley King, Cianna’s mother in May 2017. Cianna was admitted to hospital at the age of just four with her first Sickle Cell crisis. After many tests and hospital visits to see the Paediatric consultant and Haematology nurse, Hayley knew she wanted to make a difference. Cianna’s Smile charity was born with the aim to decrease isolation for those living with Sickle Cell, support families impacted and raise awareness of Sickle Cell in the UK. 

Hayley says: “It is vital to shine a light on the health condition and raise awareness about Sickle Cell. Sickle Cell is a spontaneous medical condition and what surprises me most is how few people really know what it’s all about. We need to break the myths and stigmas. Cianna’s Smile charity will continue sharing stories and facts to engage with our existing and new supporters on social media to get people talking about Sickle Cell.” 

Our initiatives focus on health education, mental well-being, and creative expression, offering a safe and inclusive space for individuals impacted by Sickle Cell to share their experiences and connect with others.  

It is estimated that between 12,500 and 15,000 people live with the lifelong and debilitating condition in the UK. It is a largely unknown condition that causes severe pain episodes, (aka a crisis) leading to immediate hospital admission and treatment.  

Sickle Cell Anaemia affects haemoglobin, causing the red blood cells to take on a rigid “C” or sickle shape. Sickle cells can get stuck and block blood flow to specific organs causing complications, pain and decrease oxygen levels. Extreme cases can include stroke, acute chest syndrome, organ damage and blindness.