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Latest Episode
1. The History of Sickle Cell Research
In this inaugural episode, we delve into the history of sickle cell research with esteemed guests Vence Bonham Jr., JD, and Dr. Matthew Hsieh.
2. The Patient Perspective
In the second episode, we are joined by sickle cell advocate and gene therapy recipient Jimi Olaghere. Jimi shares his experience participating in a groundbreaking clinical trial that transformed his life.
3. The Caregiver Perspective
In episode three, we are joined by Jimi's wife Amanda Olaghere. She shares her unique caregiver prospective during the curative therapy process.
4. Transplant vs. Gene Therapy
In this episode , Dr. Caterina Minniti explains the curative therapy process. We are also introduced to Genesis Jones, a transplant recipient who shares transformative journey.
5. The Clinical Perspective
We conclude part two of our interview with Genesis Jones and introduce Wynona Coles, Senior Technical Laboratory Manager at the National Institutes of Health/NHLBI. Wynona shares her perspective on the curative therapy process.
6. The Mental Health Perspective
In this episode, Psychologist Dr. Staci Martin discusses the mental health implications associated with sickle cell disease and the curative therapy process.
7. ACT in Practice
In this episode, we’re excited to welcome back Dr. Staci Martin as she puts Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) into practice. Dr. Martin provides an in-depth exploration of mental health challenges specific to individuals with sickle cell disease, especially those undergoing curative therapy.
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8. Bridging Science and Stories
In this episode, we are joined by Kira Dineen, host of the award-winning podcast DNA Today. Kira brings her expertise in genetics to the conversation as we explore the intersection of DNA, gene therapies, and sickle cell disease. Together, we discuss how science is advancing treatment options and how storytelling can amplify the voices of those affected by genetic conditions
#ThroughTheGenes is a patient-led podcast that explores the risks, benefits, and limitations of cell and gene-based therapies for sickle cell disease. Hosted by the sickle
sisters - Wunmi Bakare and Christelle Salomon, with special guest, Dima Hendricks - the show offers firsthand accounts from patients, caregivers, and providers who have
witnessed the effects of transformative therapies.
Supported by Beam Therapeutics, Synthego ®, Vertex Pharmaceuticals, and Kamau Therapeutics, Season 2 of the show dives deeper into ethical considerations, long-term
impacts, and clinical insights—empowering patients and caregivers to make informeddecisions about emerging treatment options.
About The Show
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Wunmi Bakare
Co-Host & Co-Creator
Wunmi Bakare is a multicultural citizen and advocacy trailblazer in the sickle cell and rare disease communities. Fueled by purpose and the pursuit of social inclusion, her advocacy efforts focus on erasing the stigma of sickle cell disease through proactive and reactive engagement with the media.
She sits on the curative therapy advisory board for Beam Therapeutics, Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Pfizer, Fulcrum, and Healthful Data and is a patient ambassador for Health Union and Picnic Health (formerly AllStripes). She was diagnosed with the most severe type of sickle cell disease (HbSS) at 18 months then participated in a clinical trial at the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute (NIH-NHLBI) where she received an allogeneic stem cell transplant in 2019.
Bakare thrives as the Founder of WBPR Agency working across diverse corporate disciplines and providing strategic media counsel to top brands. In 2020, she launched #SickleCellProdigy, a platform that celebrates the lived experience of sickle cell patients globally.
Christelle Salomon
Co-Host
Christelle Salomon is a sickle cell warrior who has undergone a successful stem cell transplant. She's dedicated to reforming medical education and healthcare delivery to enhance the well-being of sickle cell patients. Presently, she serves as the Health Policy and Education Analyst at UCSF Sickle Cell Center of Excellence (SCCoE). In this role, she leverages social media to empower warriors and their families, while also bringing the gap between patients, providers, and scientists.
Dima Hendricks
Co-Host & Co-Creator
Dima Hendricks, a resilient sickle cell advocate and co-founder of #ThroughThePain Inc., has dedicated over two decades to championing health awareness. Her journey includes conducting health workshops and contributing to various panel discussions. Collaborating with esteemed organizations like the American Red Cross and the American Heart and Stroke Association, Dima has extended her impact in the health community.
In addition to her advocacy, Dima has an impressive history in pageantry. She has earned titles such as Miss Black Dorchester USA, Miss Black Massachusetts USA, Mrs. Massachusetts International, and the 2024 International Mrs New England. Her experience in the pageant world spans over ten years, during which she has taken on roles as a director, coach, and judge.
Dima's inspiring story of overcoming obstacles is captured in her book "Unleashing Royalty," where readers can discover her journey to triumph.
Abayomi Afolayan
Producer
“Abayomi Afolayan is a seasoned digital marketer with nearly a decade of experience in social media management, content creation, and brand storytelling.
As a podcast producer, he brings engaging conversations to life, blending creativity with strategy to connect with audiences in meaningful ways.
Beyond marketing, Abayomi is a sickle cell warrior, passionate about raising awareness and sharing personal and community stories to inspire, educate, and advocate for others living with sickle cell.
Through digital platforms, he uses his voice to foster understanding, empowerment, and support for the sickle cell community.
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