In a powerful act of compassion and commitment to women’s health, the Uplift Development Foundation, founded by the former First Lady of Ogun State, Mrs. Olufunso Amosun, has sponsored free lumpectomy and cervical cancer surgeries for 22 women battling various stages of cancer.
The initiative, fully funded by Mrs. Amosun, is part of her Foundation’s annual campaign to fight breast and cervical cancer through free screening, diagnosis, surgery, and post-operative care. This year alone, 535 women were screened, with 22 identified with breast abnormalities requiring immediate surgery.
Speaking during the surgeries held at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Abeokuta, Mrs. Amosun reiterated her belief that cancer is not a death sentence, stressing that early detection and timely treatment save lives.
“Cancer is not a death sentence. It only becomes one when you don’t take action or when there’s no intervention,” she said.
“During our October screening, 535 women were examined and 22 of them had breast issues. We are covering their surgery, investigations, and follow-up medication. It’s something we’ve committed to doing every year.”
Mrs. Amosun, who has sustained the programme for over seven years, appealed to well-meaning Nigerians and community leaders to support the fight against cancer, noting that no single foundation can meet the growing need alone.
Also speaking, Dr. Stella Ogunmuyiwa, Consultant, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at FMC, described the programme as life-changing. She explained that the hospital previously focused on screenings alone, but the Uplift Foundation’s intervention now makes surgery and full treatment possible for positive cases.
“When we screen and find positive cases, it’s not enough to stop there,” she said. “Offering surgery and further care is what truly makes a difference—and that’s what Mrs. Amosun’s Foundation is doing.”
Dr. Olabisi Dedeke, another medical expert, urged women to embrace regular health checks, warning that silence and neglect often turn manageable conditions into deadly ones.
“Many women keep their health problems hidden until it’s too late,” she lamented. “Early detection is key. Cancer doesn’t only affect women; men should also check themselves regularly.”
The atmosphere at FMC was filled with gratitude and emotion as beneficiaries and their families expressed relief and renewed hope. For many, the Foundation’s timely intervention meant not just the gift of health, but a second chance at life.
Mrs. Amosun’s Uplift Development Foundation continues to stand as a beacon of hope—reminding everyone that with care, awareness, and collective action, the fight against cancer can be won.
