Today we’d like to introduce you to Kier Spates.
Hi Kier, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I was born in 1978 with a chronic illness, but it wasn’t until I was 7 that I was diagnosed with sickle cell disease. My parents were understandably lost and didn’t quite know what to do. I still remember the moment a doctor told them I probably wouldn’t live past 11. It felt like such a heavy blow to our family. But against all odds, I made it to 15, graduated high school at 18, and even went off to college.
Throughout my journey, I encountered many doctors who dismissed my pain, labeling me as just a drug seeker. They would say I didn’t look sick, showing little empathy for what I was going through. This experience made me realize how vital it is to have support and understanding in tough times. That’s why I started the Kiers Hope Foundation. I wanted to create a space for people like me—a community where we could share our stories, find empathy, and support one another in our struggles.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Let’s talk about a few key points when it comes to dealing with Sickle Cell Disease.
First off, it’s crucial not to shy away from understanding your enemy. Sickle Cell can be a sneaky foe—it doesn’t always show up every day, but when it does, it’s like those crescent-shaped red blood cells join forces with the regular ones and cause chaos. Now that I’ve gotten a better grasp on how this works, I feel more empowered in this fight. I know who I’m up against.
Next, let’s chat about attitude. I put this second, but honestly, it could easily be the first point. Finding joy in the journey is essential. I know I’m wonderful and I’m great, but I’m also human. I have my ups and downs just like everyone else. The key is to adjust my attitude. When I do that, it not only helps me but also puts me in a position to help others find their own joy.
Think about what makes companies thrive: a winning attitude. That’s exactly the mindset I need to adopt when tackling Sickle Cell Disease. It’s all about that positive perspective.
Lastly, let’s not forget the power of compassion. It’s one of the most important tools we have on this journey. I can relate to what you’re going through, even if we’ve never met. Our shared experiences can teach us so much. Plus, when we communicate openly with our doctors and our communities, we can learn even more and support each other along the way.
So, let’s embrace understanding, cultivate a positive attitude, and show compassion as we navigate this journey together.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Working on the Steve Harvey Morning Show isn’t just a job for me—it’s a true joy! Every morning, I get to help kickstart people’s days with a dose of inspiration, joy, and hope, and that’s an incredible feeling.
I feel the same way about my work with the Kier’s Hope Foundation, where we’re dedicated to making a difference in the fight against Sickle Cell Disease. This year is especially exciting for us as we celebrate a decade of our foundation’s efforts!
We’re gearing up for our Junior Claus in Houston, Texas and Atlanta, Georgia. The proceeds from our Annual 5K Run and fun Walks benefit families living with Sickle Cell.
If you’d like to learn more or get involved, check out our website at Kier’s Hope.org. We’d love your support!
Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
Growing up, I was fortunate to have a joyful childhood despite living with Sickle Cell. My condition was a part of me, but it never defined me. I found my passion in sports, particularly football, where I excelled as one of the top running backs in the state of Texas. My dreams of securing a scholarship were within reach, and I was determined to make that dream a reality.
However, everything changed when my coach learned of my condition. Concerned for my health, he made the difficult decision to pull me off the team, asking my mother, “What if he gets sick and dies on the field?” In that moment, my mother stood firm, responding with unwavering strength, “At least he would die doing what he loved to do.” Her words resonated deeply with me, and I felt an overwhelming wave of devastation wash over me. The sport I loved was suddenly taken away, and with it, my dreams seemed to crumble.
But rather than allow Sickle Cell to dictate my future, I made a conscious decision that day: Sickle Cell would never deny me another opportunity. I channeled my energy into finding new avenues to pursue my passions. I have become an advocate for awareness around Sickle Cell, working to educate others about the condition while inspiring those who face similar challenges.
This experience has taught me resilience, determination, and the importance of pursuing one’s passion against all odds. I believe that every setback can be a setup for a comeback, and I am committed to proving that Sickle Cell does not define my limits.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.Kiershope.org / www.KierJrSpates.com
- Instagram: @KiersHope @JuniorSHMS
- Facebook: @Kier.Spates @JuniorSHMS @KiersHope
- Twitter: @JuniorSHMS @KiersHope
- Youtube: @juniorshmstv2539
