The Anambra State Association, Women in USA, Inc. and ASA Women USA Cancer Coalition in Nigeria, have contributed a total of three million naira to support three breast cancer survivors in Anambra State, aimed at reducing the financial burden of treatment.
The presentation ceremony was held in Awka, with the Board Chairman, Dr. Mrs. Josephine Onor, representing Founder and President, Dr. Mrs. Anthonia Uche-Umeh.
Dr. Onor stated that the funds will assist the beneficiaries with hospital bills and medications.
She noted that ASA Women USA, established in 2011, has been actively involved in medical missions over the years.
“The funds donated will assist the survivors with their ongoing hospital bills and medication. We are very much aware of our breast cancer patients here in Anambra in particular and generally in Nigeria,” she said.
She emphasised the importance of early detection and regular screening, noting that annual mammograms can help detect lumps early and improve treatment outcomes. “Detection is the best cure. Don’t wait until stage 2, 3, or 4. Early screening is key,” she added.
Three dummy cheques of one million naira each were presented to the beneficiaries — Blessing Ebele Machi, Florence Nwogochukwu Nwosu, and Nkoli Pieta Nnolum while the actual funds were paid directly to the hospitals to ensure accountability.
The Managing Director of Anambra Broadcasting Service, Mr. Chris Molokwu, commended ASA Women USA for the support, noting that it would significantly alleviate the challenges faced by the survivors.
Breast cancer remains one of the leading causes of mortality among women in Nigeria, making initiatives such as this critical to patient care and advocacy.