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Latest Episode
#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 informed decisions about emerging treatment options.
About The Show
Wunmi Bakare
Co-Host & Co-Creator
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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
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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
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“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.
Season One
1. The History of Sickle Cell Research
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In this inaugural episode, we delve into the history of sickle cell research with esteemed guests Vence Bonham Jr., JD, and Dr. Matthew Hsieh.
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2. The Patient Perspective
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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.
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3. The Caregiver Perspective
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In episode three, we are joined by Jimi's wife Amanda Olaghere. She shares her unique caregiver prospective during the curative therapy process.
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4. Transplant vs. Gene Therapy
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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.
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5. The Clinical Perspective
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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.
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6. The Mental Health Perspective
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In this episode, Psychologist Dr. Staci Martin discusses the mental health implications associated with sickle cell disease and the curative therapy process.
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7. ACT in Practice
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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
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Bonus Episode: Curative Therapies Beyond the Borders
The hosts of the Let's Talk about Sickle Cell Podcast, Jenica Leah and Maya Bloomberg discuss the critical topic of sickle cell disease, focusing on advocacy, treatment options, and the disparities in healthcare systems between the UK and the USA. They share personal stories and insights into the challenges faced by sickle cell patients, including the high costs of treatment, the importance of mental health support, and the role of community in advocacy. The conversation highlights the need for education and awareness to improve patient outcomes and the power of collaboration among advocates to drive change.
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Bonus Episode: Visible & Invisible Disabilities and How They Impact Us
The hosts of theMind the Gap podcast to discuss the complexities of visible and invisible disabilities, personal health journeys, and the importance of advocacy within the South Asian community. The conversation explores their experiences with health diagnoses, the impact of caregiving, and the cultural stigma surrounding health issues, particularly sickle cell disease. The guests share insights on the need for greater awareness and education, emphasizing the power of storytelling and personal narratives in fostering understanding and support.
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