The President of the Rotary Club of Abuja, Maitama, Rtn. Rosemond Favour Uche, has asked Nigerians to support breast cancer patients in neglected communities.
She said the cost of diagnosis and care of the disease was burdensome on the affected indigent women, who could be family breadwinners.
Uche made the plea at a treatment programme for cancer patients in Guidna Village, a suburb of Abuja.
He said partnerships with individuals and organizations that were dedicated to the cause of breast cancer deserve the support of all Nigerians.
Uche said: “While surgery is costly, chemotherapy is equally challenging. We hope our contributions will help these women continue their fight against cancer.
“Today, we reiterate our commitment to humanitarian work by supporting these women as they face the next phase of their treatment.
“Our aim is to raise awareness about the ongoing need for cancer care in underserved communities.
She explained why the club opted for a village for cancer screening and surgery.
Uche added: “We are here because of a partnership with Silver Cross Hospital that has been performing free surgeries for breast cancer, a mission that aligns perfectly with Rotary’s ethos of helping the indigent.
“We realized that the Medical Director’s dedication to the provision of free surgery in underprivileged areas has made a significant impact.
“If he had chosen wealthy neighbourhoods like Asokoro or Maitama, he wouldn’t reach those who need free surgery. His humanitarian spirit brought him here, where he established Silver Cross Hospital to meet the needs of the grassroots,” he added.
A past President of the club, Rtn. Yusuf Alli said: “Cancer is one of the most challenging diseases globally.
“Offering such services in this modest village is a true testament to serving humanity and God. We will spread the word about this hidden doctor who is performing miracles for cancer patients.”
The hospital’s MD, Patric Ezie who appreciated the club’s intervention called on the government and well-meaning Nigerians to emulate Rotary by assisting indigent cancer patients.
He said: “Rotarians are humanitarians. They are always known for helping those who have such issues. I reached out to them and said the hospital is already doing this project, whichever way we can support these women, it would be nice.
“It’s a huge financial issue for such an illness. We are already doing our best to ensure that the women have the surgery. They need treatment and drugs to continue on chemotherapy and nutrition.
“This is also a call to the government and well-meaning Nigerians. It won’t take Federal hospitals much to do free breast cancer surgery for women. They can do free chemotherapy, even if it’s for 100 women.”
