Remembering Rapper JayAre and Sickle Cell Awareness

It is always unfortunate when someone passes away at a young age. Cahron Childs, better known as JayAre from the group Cali Swag District, died this past weekend from Sickle Cell Anemia. The 25-year-old was reportedly admitted into a hospital last Thursday and went into cardiac arrest. The group is best known for their international hit song “Teach Me How to Dougie“, which was accompanied by a popular dance. Childs was the second member of the group to succumb. In 2011, fellow group member M-Bone was shot and killed in a drive-by shooting in Los Angeles.

Group member, Smoove Da General, stated:

“Sickle cell took my brother away from me today. With that being said I’m proud to know that with that disease he made the best of his life. I just saw my bro literally fight for his life I told him ‘I love you bro’ hope’n he heard me.”

Every year, 1 in 500 African-Americans are born with Sickle Cell Anemia and about 1 and 12 African-Americans have the sickle trait. The disease causes red blood cells to become c-shaped, making them hard and sticky, which causes major blockage in small blood vessels.

For more information, please visit the NIH website.