Groups offer lifeline to Sickle Cell patients

By Osaigbovo Iguobaro, Benin

Two Institutions in Edo state have donated medical equipment to persons living with Sickle Cell disorder in the state in fulfillment of their Corporate Social Responsibility.
Edo State Commissioner for Health, Dr. David Osifo who received the items on behalf of the Sickle Cell Club, commended the donors – Management of PRESCO Plc and the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) Sickle Cell Awareness Golf Tournament Fund Management Committee.
He said the state government has earmarked the sum of N35 million to revamp the Sickle Cell Centre in Benin City with a view to improving infrastructure and boost the state of facility at the centre.
He appreciated the Board Chairman, Prof. Mrs. Omoti for her foresight in improving the State of the Sicke Cell Centre.
According to him, “The sickle cell board has been able to move the centre forward in trying to alleviate the suffering of the sickle cell challenged persons in the State. Very soon the sickle centre will be a centre of excellence”, he said.
Chairman Edo State Sickle Cell Board, Prof. (Mrs) Caroline Omoti, sued for more support from philanthropic individuals and other corporate organizations to address lack of functional pharmacy and medical unit.
Omoti who gave good account of the Sickle Cell Centre under her watch, appealed to intending couple to always check their genotype before going into matrimony towards reducing the Sickle Cell disorder in society.
Chairman PRESCO/UBTH Sickle Awareness Golf Tournament Fund Management Committee, Dr. Dominic Oseghae, assured that the gesture would reduce the plight of sickle cell sufferers in the state and to compliment government effort in providing aid to the centre.
Head of Administration Presco Plc, Mr.Tony Uwajeh and Chairman PRESCO/UBTH Sickle Awareness Golf Tournament Fund Management Committee, Dr. Dominic Oseghae donated hematology analyzer for full blood count.
Also, Chairman PRESCO/UBTH Sickle Awareness Golf Tournament Fund Management Committee, Dr. Dominic Oseghae presented a hematology analyzer for full blood count which was complemented by Reflon Chemistry Analyzer, Trinocular Microscope and a Computer Display for cellular and other blood fluid visualization from the state government.