The Municipality of Bagheria is organizing the presentation of the book “Blood to Sickle” by Giovan Battista Ruffo, an event that will be held on Wednesday, Dec. 11 at 5:30 p.m. at the Martorana Fumagalli Hall of Villa Butera.
The author, esteemed director of the Hematology and Thalassemia Operating Unit at ARNAS Civico in Palermo, gives us a work that goes beyond simple narration, interweaving his deep knowledge of sickle cell disease with an exciting and engaging story. Through the pages of “Sickle Cell Blood,” readers are invited to immerse themselves in the world of those living with this disease, understanding their challenges, hopes and strength of will.
The presentation will be attended for institutional greetings by the mayor of Bagheria Filippo Maria Tripoli and vice mayor and culture councillor Daniele Vella.
In dialogue with the author will be two prominent figures: Salvatore Requirez, Director General of the Department of Health Activities of the Sicilian Region, and Lia Sava, Attorney General at the Court of Appeal of Palermo.
Their presence underscores the importance of raising awareness on such a sensitive issue and promoting constructive discussion on sickle cell disease.
Moderating the meeting will be journalist Marina Mancini, head of the ICP service of the municipality of Bagheria.
Sickle Cell Blood is a novel that goes beyond the simple narrative of an illness. Set in multiethnic Palermo, a crossroads of Mediterranean cultures, the book interweaves the life stories of people with sickle cell anemia with topical issues such as illegal immigration and human trafficking. Using engaging language, the author takes us on an emotional journey through the suffering and hopes of those living with this genetic disease. But he does not limit himself to this. Blood to Sickle is also a sharp reflection on the social challenges that characterize our society, highlighting the fragilities of a system that often leaves the weakest on the margins. Through his narrative, the author invites us to reflect on the interconnections between different realities, showing us how sickle cell disease can intersect with the stories of those who are forced to flee their homeland and those who are victims of exploitation.The novel, then, is not only a literary work, but also a tool for raising awareness. By harnessing the power of storytelling, the author helps us better understand a complex disease and look with fresh eyes at the challenges we face as a society.