Welcome to Women in RARE: Next Gen. Here, we shine a spotlight on female rare disease advocates of the future. First featured in the Women in RARE edition of RARE Revolution Magazine
About you
I have been baking for a few years now and I have also battled sickle cell anaemia since birth. One thing that makes me unique is that my two sisters also are fighting sickle cell! All three of us have a rare sickle cell trait that strikes all female children from my parents.
After the tragic experience of witnessing my older sister have a massive stroke in 2014, I learned more about the history of our overlooked disease. I learned about trigger foods and special dietary needs that help people living with sickle cell stay healthy. Since I love to bake, I decided to find new ways to make treats that we love.
I came up with recipes for cakes that ANYONE could enjoy; even people battling Sickle Cell or on restricted diets. I have a big sweet tooth, so it was hard to find a way to create the same taste. I kept on testing until I found a great formula that uses organic and natural ingredients.
Once my parents tasted what I was making, they knew I was on to something and Nazhi Thee Baker was born! That also gave life to Nazhi Thee Baker Angel Foundation. I use the proceeds of my cakes to buy toys and items needed by children with Sickle Cell, stuck in the hospital for extended periods of time.
We are spreading awareness about sickle cell and we have been blessed to have our story told on local and national television and radio! This is just the beginning of our journey and we hope to inspire others to do the same.
Your biggest motivation
My biggest motivation is Sickle Cell Slayers!
Your greatest achievement
My greatest achievement is our Healthy Heart walk!
What’s next to strive for?
What we’re striving for next is to get into other hospitals around the world.
Advice to other up-and-coming advocates
Continue to chase your dreams and goals because if I can do it, you can do it too because I believe in YOU!
The tide will have turned for the rare disease community when...
Everyone continues to spread awareness about unknown illnesses, it is so important to shed light on the rare disease community.
Socials
Instagram: @nazhitheebaker
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