LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Joseph Mallard’s nickname is “Sunshine Joe” because of his radiant personality, lighting up every room he goes into, but one thing you won’t know just looking at Joe is he battles with sickle cell anemia.

What You Need To Know

  • Sickle cell disease affects about 100,000 people in the United States, according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

  • Joseph Mallard was diagnosed sickle cell anemia at 31

  • He hopes to inspire others that a vibrant life is still possible with sickle cell

  • Mallard has made 14 quilts each one taking up to 5 years to create. One of his quilts can be seen at the Frazier Museum in downtown Louisville

Mallard says he didn’t even know what sickle cell was until he was diagnosed at the age of 31. But Joe doesn’t let this genetic blood disorder stop him from pursuing his passions of stitchery and textile art which was passed down by his grandmother.

Mallard says when he sits and quilts, he finds a peace that lets him escape reality. He found he could be an activist and stitch about current events.

“When people look at my quilts, the thing that I'm most pleased about is that the more you look, the more you see.” Said Mallard

After Mallard’s diagnosis, he wrote a poem about dealing with sickle cell.

“Life is beautiful and it can be real. It all depends on your free will, going places and doing things just naturally spreading your wings. Being honest and being real is the only way to give yourself a fair deal. Keep your mind open and your spirits high. You can do anything, even touch the sky.” Said Mallard

This is Mallard’s motto for life; he tries to be an encouragement to other young people who are also living with sickle cell.

“The doctors tell me that most people don't live to be even 30 years of age. Today, I am 81 years of age and sickle cell, I don't care what it is. I am going to live my life to the fullest.” Said Mallard

Hoping to inspire others that a vibrant life is still possible with sickle cell.

Joe Mallard has made 14 quilts one of which can be seen at the Frazier Museum in downtown Louisville.