Folic Acid

~ This is a picture taken behind the University of Lagos.

I have a problem...a huge one. I hate taking pills with a fervor that is close to dedication. Especially pills on a daily basis. I've known ever since I was about 6 years old that I've had sickle cell. I've known the treatment, the prevention, and everything I had to do consistently to maintain the state of equilibrium that prevents an exacerbation.

And yet, when it comes to that one simple task of taking Folic acid on a regular basis...I shy away from it. I remember once telling my mom that I wouldn't have to take folic acid if I ate alot of green, leafy vegetables. Even I knew that it was bull and she just gave me that look that signified that she knew I was tripping.

Whenever someone asks what pills I'm taking...I automatically say folic acid. I lie to my doctor, my concerned mom, everyone who cares. But I can't lie to myself.

The thing about it is that when I'm well...I'm soooooooo well. There is absolutely nothing wrong with me and I feel just like a normal person. Man...I love it when I'm well. Occasionally, when something is out of wack (stress, cold, dehydration, my period, exhaustion, plane flights), then I might feel the painful twinges that are a reminder of my vulnerable state.

However, I believe in mind over matter. If I will my body to be better, then it should be right? Wrong. Once I get the first twinges of pain I might be able to head it off for a few weeks by staying on the straight and narrow. But sometimes my best efforts fail and I have to take to bed for a few days until the crises passes.

I'm going to try to take the folic acid regularly. Hopefully it will ward off mini-crises and prevent major ones. I'm adding it to my exercise regimen...as a vitamin along with the protein shakes and stuff. We'll see how that goes.