By Ngunyi Sonita Nwohtazie
FONTEM, PAV – The fifth edition of the free health campaign organised by the Lebang Cultural and Development Organisation (LECUDO-USA) in collaboration with Mary Health of Africa Hospital and partners at the Mary Health of Africa Hospital in Nveh, Fontem, Lebialem Division unfolded as a powerful story of hope, healing and renewed life, as hundreds of inhabitants from across the Fondom turned out to benefit from the life-changing medical outreach.
From mothers clutching newborn babies to parents whose children received long-awaited surgical care, the atmosphere within the hospital premises was filled with gratitude, relief and heartfelt testimonies. By the close of the first day, over 445 patients had been registered, with many receiving specialized consultations, medication and surgical interventions at absolutely no cost.
A Safe Delivery and A Mother’s Relief
Among the most touching testimonies was that of Asong Mervis, whose young son had long been battling a medical condition that the family could not afford to treat. According to her, the boy had earlier been diagnosed with an umbilical hernia at another medical facility. However, the financial burden of surgery forced the family to postpone the treatment indefinitely.
But when news of the free health campaign reached her, she wasted no time bringing her son to the Mary Health of Africa Hospital. “My son was diagnosed with an umbilical hernia in another hospital some months back, but because of financial difficulties, I could not proceed with the operation,” Mervis recounted with emotion.
“When I heard about the free health campaign here, I did not hesitate to bring him. Today, my son is free after a successful operation. I am extremely grateful.”
For Ayangafec Delphine, the health campaign delivered not only medical care but also the priceless gift of life. She successfully delivered a healthy baby boy under the supervision of the campaign’s medical team, an experience she described as both joyful and financially relieving.
“I am overwhelmed with joy to have given birth under this free health campaign,” Delphine said while cradling her newborn. It has greatly reduced my financial burden.”
The experienced mother, who has now given birth to six children, was equally impressed by the professionalism of the medical staff who attended to her. “I must acknowledge the professionalism of the health experts here,” she added. “I arrived at the hospital around 6 a.m., and by midday, I had already delivered my baby boy safely. Everything was handled with care and expertise.”
A Child’s Recovery Brings a Mother Peace
Another grateful parent, Eyong Sonita, spoke with visible relief after her son recovered from a severe fever following consultation and treatment during the campaign. Before arriving at the hospital, she explained, the child had been battling persistent high temperatures that left the family deeply worried.
But after medical examination and treatment, the situation quickly improved. “Before I brought my son here, he was suffering from very high temperatures,” she explained. “After consultation and medication, he is now active and strong again. He can run around and play.”
Filled with appreciation, she expressed gratitude to the organisers for making healthcare accessible to families who might otherwise struggle to afford it. “I am really thankful to LECUDO-USA for giving us the opportunity to treat our children without spending a single franc.”
Lasting impact through continued follow-up care
Beyond the immediate medical services, the campaign has also demonstrated impact through continued follow-up care. Mbetem John, one of the beneficiaries of a previous edition, returned to the hospital not for eye treatment this time, but to address a different health concern.
He revealed that during last year’s campaign, he had been diagnosed and treated for glaucoma, a condition that had threatened his eyesight. “Today I am here for another health issue,” he explained. “But I must thank the LECUDO-USA team for the excellent follow-up after last year’s campaign. My sight has been restored, and the pains are gone.”
The opening day of the Health Campaign recorded remarkable achievements in service delivery. Medical teams successfully carried out 11 surgical procedures, including nine major surgeries and two minor ones, offering patients critical treatment that many had long awaited. Beyond surgery, the campaign provided a wide range of healthcare services, including: Free X-ray scans, dental care services, ultrasound (ecography) examinations and general medical consultations, among others.
Now in its fifth edition, the Health Campaign continues to demonstrate the power of community-driven initiatives in improving access to healthcare in rural areas. The campaign is not merely a medical outreach; it is a lifeline for families who otherwise struggle to access quality healthcare services.
