Residents of Bonny Island in Rivers State have launched an urgent appeal for financial support to save Gift Chibunna, who is currently battling stage four breast cancer.
A volunteer group, led by community member Rebecca Jonathan-Hart, has started a street-to-street awareness and fundraising campaign to raise approximately ₦20 million required for surgery and other critical medical procedures.
During one of the fundraising drives, Jonathan-Hart explained that the cancer, which initially affected one breast, has now begun spreading, making immediate intervention vital. She called on government officials, traditional leaders, philanthropists, and compassionate Nigerians to contribute to Chibunna’s treatment.
“We are appealing to everyone, including leaders and kind-hearted individuals, to help save her life. The situation is critical, and she urgently needs medical attention,” she said.
Chibunna’s son, God-is-Able Chibunna, also appealed for support, noting that the family has been battling the illness for over five years but has struggled to maintain consistent treatment due to financial constraints.
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According to him, his mother has undergone several surgeries in the past, but the cancer returned and worsened because treatment was interrupted.
“This breast cancer challenge has lasted over five years. She has undergone surgeries before, but the illness returned, and now doctors say urgent surgery is needed again,” he said.
He added that Chibunna had previously been referred to the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH), where she received chemotherapy and medical tests, but treatment was halted when the family could no longer afford the costs.
“We have tried everything possible to raise money, but it has been difficult. That is why we are now appealing publicly for help,” he said.
Residents say the campaign is not only aimed at saving Chibunna’s life but also at raising awareness about breast cancer, encouraging early treatment, and fostering community support for patients facing similar struggles.
