Some carriers of sickle cell anemia in Ebonyi state have commended the wife of the state governor, Mrs. Mary-Maudline Nwifuru, for her healthcare programme.
The Governor’s wife, through her pet project, Better Health for rural women, Children and Internally Displaced Foundation (BERWO). registered 200 sickle cell warriors into the State health insurance scheme.
Some of these warriors Miss Favor Nwankwo and Precious narrated the crisis they have underground because of their health and lack of fund to access healthcare as at when needed.
Precious who said she had skin injury that had affected her movement for years noted that through the insurance scheme of Mrs. Nwifuru her health status has greatly improved.
“I want to thank Her Excellency for what she has done in my life, I benefited from the Sickle cell health insurance scheme. I was passing through a lot, I had injury inside me that could not allow me work,before I can go anywhere it will take a lot of time, I find it difficult to walk, to stand up was an issue and I had no one to help me. I have suffered this for so many years, but since I got registered into this program, I have been receiving treatments free of charge, I can now run, my life has been given a meaning again”.
Favor Nwankwo on her own said, I want to say thank you to Her Excellency, I am giving her the name “Warrior Saviour ” because she has saved a lot of souls through this program”.
Mrs. Nwifuru in her address said,“Sickle cell disease is a genetic condition that affects millions of people worldwide, causing severe pain, frequent hospitalizations, and numerous complications. Despite the challenges, our warriors exhibit incredible strength and resilience every day. Today, we honour that strength and renew our commitment to supporting them in every way possible.
“This year, we mark a significant milestone by enrolling 200 brave individuals into Ebonyi State Health Insurance Agency through my Foundation, Better Health for Rural Women, Children and Internally Displaced Foundation (BERWO).
“Enrolling these 200 sickle cell warriors is a monumental step in our efforts to provide comprehensive care, including access to specialized medical treatment, regular health check-ups, and psychosocial support. This program aims to empower our warriors with the knowledge and resources to manage their condition effectively and lead fulfilling lives.
Moses Ekuma Commissioner for Health in Ebonyi State in his remarks urged the society to avoid stigmatising sickle cell warriors noting that the disease is genetic.
He explained that the United Nations in 2018 slated June 25th as a day dedicated to raising awareness, promoting understanding, and enhancing support for individuals living with sickle cell disease.
“It is a day of hope, resilience, and progress, and I am honoured to stand before you as we embark on a new chapter in our collective journey towards better health and improved quality of life for all sickle cell warriors”. He said.
