Sickle Cell Health Initiative, Others, Take Awareness to Akure with Free Health care for ‘Warriors’
Sickle Cell Health Initiative, Others, Take Awareness to Akure with Free Health care for ‘Warriors’
By: Olanrewaju Ayo
On Friday, September 12th, 2024, the Sickle Cell Health Initiative, a non-governmental organization, in collaboration with the Olumuyiwa Adu Foundation, Young Medical Laboratory Scientists Forum (YMLSF) Ondo State branch, Ayeni Idowu Sickle Cell Foundation, Beacon Health, Event Plus, the Ondo State Ministry of Health, Ignite Sickle Cell Initiative, and the Ondo State Contributory Health Commission, held a comprehensive awareness program on sickle cell disease in Akure, the Ondo State capital.
The awareness campaign aimed to educate the public about sickle cell disease, its causes, management, and prevention. As part of their effort to reach out to the community, the Sickle Cell Initiative and its partner organizations provided free medical tests and medication to participants and registered them for a free medical care program. The event was designed to support and empower individuals living with sickle cell disease, often referred to as “sickle cell warriors.”
In her opening remarks, Miss Ibitayo Ayeni, Director of the Sickle Cell Health Initiative, called on relevant stakeholders to support efforts in providing care and raising awareness about sickle cell disease. She emphasized the importance of sustaining programs like these to ensure continued support for those affected by the condition.
Representing the Ondo State Contributory Health Commission, Mr. Gbenga Olubodun informed attendees about the free healthcare insurance available to sickle cell patients. He urged the patients and their families to take full advantage of this initiative, which aims to reduce the financial burden of managing the disease.
A key feature of the event was an education and sensitization session led by the Young Medical Laboratory Scientists Forum (YMLSF), Ondo State branch. The session provided participants with valuable information on managing sickle cell disease and debunked common myths surrounding it. Additionally, Mrs. Ajibola from the Ondo State Ministry of Health delivered an in-depth presentation on the history, causes, care, and prevention of sickle cell disease.
In his remarks, Dr. Barrister Olumuyiwa Adu, a prominent politician and philanthropist from Akure, urged attendees to be mindful of genotype compatibility when considering marriage, to prevent the transmission of sickle cell disease to future generations. He reiterated his commitment to supporting sickle cell warriors and encouraged them to remain strong in their fight against the disease.
Barr. Itote Ifedayo, one of the organizers, expressed deep appreciation for all the partners and sponsors who contributed to the success of the event. She highlighted Beacon Health Diagnostics, which sponsored free genotype testing, blood pressure, and weight checks for 100 individuals, playing a crucial role in the health assessments offered during the program.
The Young Medical Laboratory Scientists Forum (YMLSF) also made a significant contribution by offering free blood group testing, further supporting the health and well-being of the participants. G-Sound multimedia generously provided the stage at no cost, showing their commitment to supporting the sickle cell community in Ondo State.
Additionally, Event Plus Decos and Cakes donated the event’s decorations, chairs, and tables, enhancing the overall atmosphere of the event. Ignite Sickle Cell Initiative from Ikare-Akoko partnered by sending their staff to assist with the program, showcasing their dedication to the cause.
Final-year medical students from the University of Medical Sciences, Ondo (UNIMED), were also in attendance, lending their support and expertise to the event. Barr. Ifedayo applauded Becka Pharmacy, Akure, for their remarkable gesture of donating one month’s worth of routine drugs to over 100 sickle cell warriors, providing much-needed medical relief to those affected by the condition.
The event was a significant step towards raising awareness, promoting early detection, and providing support to those affected by sickle cell disease in Ondo State. The organizers expressed hope that such initiatives would continue to build a more informed and healthier society.
Watch video here
