Nigerian Father Regrets Ignoring Genotype Over Religion As Daughter Develops Sickle Cell Disease
By Admin, Lagos
A Nigerian father has expressed deep regret after his daughter was diagnosed with sickle cell disease, saying he ignored genotype compatibility before marriage because of his religious beliefs.
The father revealed that he and his wife discovered that they were both AS before getting married. Despite knowing the potential risk, they decided to proceed with the marriage because he believed his faith and prayers would protect them from having a child with sickle cell disease.
He said the reality of watching his daughter experience sickle cell crises has forced him to reflect on the decision he made before marriage.
According to the father, he dated his wife for three years without sexual intimacy because of his religious convictions. However, after they discovered that they were both AS, he convinced himself that his faithfulness to God would prevent their future children from being affected.
Describing his decision as “foolishness,” the father urged couples to take genotype compatibility seriously and seek appropriate medical advice before marriage.
“Prayer cannot solve it if you open your eyes and make a mistake that reality has already shown you,” he said.
He explained that his experience had changed his perspective on the importance of combining religious faith with informed medical decisions.
The father said he hopes his story will serve as a warning to intending couples, particularly those who have discovered that they may have a genetic compatibility risk.
His message has also sparked conversations about the importance of genotype testing and counselling before marriage, especially for couples who may be carriers of the sickle cell trait.
While faith may remain important to individuals and families, the father’s experience highlights the need for couples to understand their genotype status and the potential implications before making decisions about marriage and having children.
What do you think about the father’s decision to proceed with the marriage despite knowing that both partners were AS? Share your thoughts in the comments.