On 6th March 2025, our HCC team joined up with Genomics England and the Bristol African Caribbean Expo to host a screening of the new Bristol-made docufilm, ‘The Primrose Files: Sickle Cell Warriors” at the Trinity Centre, Bristol. This film was created by Bristol based community activist/champion, campaigner and volunteer Primrose Granville with the purpose of raising awareness for sickle cell disorders and research within this patient group.
The evening started at 6pm and we were pleased to see large crowds of attendees coming through the door! Everyone grabbed their popcorn and drinks and took their seats ready for the screening to begin.
In the first part of the film screening, we heard about the lived experiences of sickle cell warriors, their family members and caregivers. We heard from patients of all ages who shared their stories openly and honestly to give a clear and moving account of their experience with this condition.
Following the first part of the film, we took a break for food. The haemoglobinopathy team were at the ready to serve the delicious homemade Caribbean meal (from Glen’s Kitchen) and drink selection which was provided for this event! We enjoyed curry goat, jerk chicken, rice and peas, delicious dumplings and more…
After food, we sat down for the second part of the film screening. This part of the film talked about the importance of research and blood donation. We heard that we need more individuals from black ethnic groups to be involved in research projects such as Improving Black Health Outcomes (you can see more about this on our ‘trials and research’ page) and to become blood donors to allow us to provide better matched blood to patients with sickle cell disorders.
Following the screening, Primrose led a panel discussion involving patients, research representatives and our HCC consultant Dr Lugthart. We spoke more about individual experiences, upcoming research and took some questions from the audience. Lastly Primrose ended the evening by saying:
“Blood is life, and people are listening now. But we need people to step up and do something real and tangible”
This ended an inspirational evening in which we learned a lot about sickle cell, research and blood donation!
Following the event, you gave your feedback – thank you! Here are some quotes from those who attended:
“This was very informative and it was nice to hear other experiences of Sickle cell young and old. It was also great to see it being filmed in Bristol as there is nothing in Bristol and more advertising needs to be done on Sickle cell”
“The event was very informative and clear to understand all participant perspectives. I gained a good understanding of full blown sickle cell disease and sickle cell trait and how it can affect individuals. I have increased my knowledge and understanding of how I may support individuals with this condition and am thankful for that. The filming was extremely professional and captured a range of audiences.”
“We definitely need a part two follow up conversation on next steps. The diversity in the room was great, we also need to address the barriers to blood donations”
“The awareness gained from people living with Sickle cells issues. The knowledge gained about how the NHS is working to tackle discrimination and injustice, withing health services for people living with this condition. Also the opportunity for black people to engage research to make a more positive contribution and outcome.”
“It was a community event where you had the chance to hear the real-life views of the patients, families and friends. It was a really good documentary.”
Thank you for attending and we hope that soon we will be able to host a follow up event to talk about the topics raised in this event further… watch this space!