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A Free Facial Surgery That Transformed My Life: My Diary

By Dura Kwaghdoo Joy

Edited by;
Msendoo Azongu

 

Enduring Tumour, where is the hope?

My name is Joy, and for a long time, I struggled to find the funds for a much-needed surgery. But then, God intervened, and I discovered a free surgery program that changed my life forever. I am still in awe, wondering how I would have afforded such a surgery. This program brought laughter back into my home, and I am eternally grateful.

 

Accidental Source of Information:

I learned about the program through my mom’s friend, Mrs. Rebecca Addai, at FMC Makurdi. She connected us with Dr. Ogbeifun, now in Saudi Arabia, who introduced us to this organization.

 

Atmosphere of Uncertainty as Screening Process Began:

The screening day was an experience I will never forget. I saw many faces and cases, and initially, I was scared. The doctors were thorough in their check-ups, and although they discussed the potential negative aspects, I understood they had to prepare us for all possibilities.

The “D” day, My Turn in the Theatre:

My time in the operating room was a memorable one. I was scared at first, but my mom’s words of encouragement echoed in my mind, reminding me to stay calm and focused , as I had been warned about the importance of keeping my blood pressure under control during the procedure. The doctors were so jovial and they made me feel relaxed, asking me questions to distract me from the procedure . “ what’s your name? “They asked , and I replied , “ where are you from? “they inquired , and I told them. “How many are you in your family?” They asked and I responded . I was thinking to myself ‘ “ Don’t they know How tense I am in this situation ?” Why are they asking me such questions ?”But I later discovered they were trying to make me feel at ease, and it worked. Before I knew it, I was in the ward room, unaware of when the surgery took place. I woke up feeling strong and well.

Surgeons and Supporting Staff:

Dr. Seidu Bello and the supporting staff were exceptional. They were friendly, skilled, and always available, regularly checking on us and dedicated to our care.

My Star Patient:

Among the patients, little George, born with a cleft lip, received a life-changing surgery. The smile on his parents’ faces was priceless, and it warmed my heart to see their joy.

Common people United by one destiny, atmosphere in the Ward:

Despite our different backgrounds and languages, we bonded and supported each other like a family in the ward. It is customary for doctors to advise patients scheduled for operation the following day to stop eating by 10pm. However a phenomenon of fasting was the order of the day in the ward. All intending patients constantly embarked on unprescribed fasting in anticipation of a chance to be called to theatre. It was simply amazing.

Discharge Process:

Before discharge, Dr. Seidu Bello checked on all the patients and he made sure only those who were fit was sent home, he addressed us on how to take care of our wounds properly. Medications were also given to the patients for free. Special emphasis was placed on follow up process; Dr Bello’s direct line was given to all patients and in addition all patients were free to visit the Abuja Centre of the foundation in case of a complication or any complaint. Slips were distributed to us containing the review date which was slated for July 20th, 2024. Dr Bello emphasised the importance of review process where reports of Histology Test will be shared and progress of healing will be checked.

Conclusion:

I am forever grateful to the selfless medical team, program organizers (sponsors), and volunteers who dedicated themselves to helping those in need. This free surgery gave me a second chance at life, and I will always be thankful for their kindness and compassion.

This Post Has 13 Comments

  1. Tomi

    When most people see a facial tumour like this one, they just shake their heads in pity and go their way.
    A few people will give the patient some money, but most times, it hardly covers cost of treatment.
    But some people are actually doing something about it……
    Thanks to the sponsors (TY Danjuma, smile train, and others) and the group of Surgeons and health workers who freely render this life changing service.
    This is truly worth supporting. How can individuals support the Cleft and Facial Deformity Foundation (cfdf) in it’s quest to help the poor?

    1. Seidu Bello

      Thanks for your inspiring comments

      2 major ways
      1. Donate in cash or materials to d foundation
      2. Spread the news of our activities to people that are capable of supporting the course.

      kind regards. Dr Bello

  2. Olusegun Ajuwon

    Only God Almighty is able to adequately reward Dr Seidu Bello and his team for the service being rendered to people in need. Of course the patients like Joy above, their immediate families and outsiders like me can express our appreciation. My prayer is for God to continue to bless you and your team.

  3. Usman Tayiba

    May God continue to bless Dr Bello n his team I pray that we have more sponsors that the remaining unoperated cases

    1. ABDULWASIU RAHMAH

      CFDF as touched a lot of lives ,may Almighty Allah continue to uplift this wonderful organization .

  4. Joy kwaghdoo Dura

    Thank God for everything
    Am grateful 🙏

  5. Aisha Jibril

    May God continue to uplift CFDF and bless Dr Belo abundantly

  6. AJISEBUTU TAIWO OMOYEMI

    GODS WORK THROUGH AND INDEGENOUS SURGICAL MISSION…….KUDOS TO CFDF AND TY DANJUMA FOUNDATION

  7. AJISEBUTU TAIWO OMOYEMI

    GODS WORK THROUGH AN INDEGENOUS SURGICAL MISSION…….KUDOS TO CFDF AND TY DANJUMA FOUNDATION

  8. Adeoye Adedokun

    That’s a wonderful tribute to the organizations that made this possible! Your words are filled with gratitude and appreciation for the impact they’ve had on people’s lives. Here’s a slight refinement to make it even more heartfelt:

    “What an incredible gift! This free surgery has truly transformed countless lives in ways many never thought possible. It’s amazing how a single procedure can have such a profound impact on one’s health, confidence, and overall well-being. All patients received this life-changing surgery at no cost, thanks to the generosity of Smile Train and CFDF. May God bless these organizations for their selfless dedication to helping humanity. Their kindness has created a ripple effect of joy and hope that will resonate far and wide!”

  9. Hauwa Bashir

    The foundation has touched alot of lives long live CFDF👍

  10. ABDULWASIU RAHMAH

    CFDF as touched a lot of lives ,may Almighty Allah continue to uplift this wonderful organization .

  11. Usman Tayiba

    Congratulations to cfdf team More success ahead, having said that pls I plead to the sponsorer to continue to support the team so that the remaining unattended ones can also benefit

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