Helen Obando’s story is an amazing human interest story that brings awareness to an underfunded but severe illness, sickle cell disease. The narrative begins in the middle of her journey to receive a cure for the sickle cell disease. As the author, Gina Kolata, narrates Helen’s journey with the disease, she also flashbacks to pivotal moments in Helen’s past which showcase the theme of survival.
The short video featured within the article also gives readers a more personal connection to Helen as she describes her pain and overall life experience living with sickle cell anemia. It also gives us an insight into Helen’s courageous nature by agreeing to be the youngest person to undergo, Gene Therapy Treatment, a new treatment to cure sickle cell anemia. The article includes photos of Helen laying in a hospital bed to enhance the severity of her struggle with the disease. Kolata use of photos in the article shows the dedication of Helen’s family and Dr. Stuart Orkin to ensure this new treatment will work. In several of the photos, Helen is captured with an uninterested look on her face. Her weary look emphasis her need to proceed with having a normal day but the unexpected pain she often feels seems to be taking over.
Sadness is an emotion depicted in these pictures because let’s face it, it is hard not to feel that emotion when a loved one is suffering from a severe illness. Love is a prominently displayed in the photos as well. For instance, the photo of Helen’s dad holding her head as he comforts her while lying in a hospital bed shows she is surrounded by love and support. Another memorable photo is of Helen at the New England Aquarium rubbing a small shark in a tank. She is smiling, appearing to be very happy and not in severe pain. The author uses all the elements of a story to tell this meaningful story of a brave young girl participating in a medical breakthrough.
Kinise Jordan 