Valaria was diagnosed at birth with Sickle Cell Disease. She's taking hydroxyurea for medication. Hydroxyurea is a preventive medicine used to avert pain crises. Valaria has regular clinical visits to the Aflac Cancer Center and Blood Disorders Service at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta. At this point, she does not have to have blood transfusions every month for a year and a half. She has been a patient all her life and visits the clinic every month.

Valaria's favorite doctor is Dr. Harry. She also likes Dr.Iffy, Ms. Elise, Mrs. Tammy (Nurse), and Ms. Marcia in intake. Valaria has made friends whom she considers family at the clinic. Valaria likes dancing, cheerleading, karate, gymnastics, roller skating, and hanging out with her friends.

Valaria has been through a lot for her age. Her right lung collapse last February and she was in the hospital for a month. Once released from the hospital she has received blood transfusions for a year and a half. It was a challenging experience for us, because we don't have any family here in Georgia. Valaria has learned the value of having her family and close friends there when she is in the hospital. Coping with the pain when she is having a pain crisis can be difficult and she appreciates the love and support from everyone.