By Aideloje Ojo
Minna
The Sani Bello Foundation in partnership with Graceland Healthcare Development Foundation, have provided free surgical care to more than 600 patients at Kontagora General Hospital to commemorate Col. Sani Bello’s (Rtd) birthday.
The ailments treated included fibroids, appendicitis, hernias, goiters, lumps, and eye issues including cataracts and pterygium. It also included dental services for the first time and distributed over 600 glasses.
A breakdown of the treatment include 399 general surgeries, 117 eye operations, 199 dental procedures, 174 total toothpaste/toothbrush dispenser, 122 dental medications given, 91 tooth extractions, 59 tooth washing, 45 tooth replacement during which total of 4,680 drugs distributed.
In a remark, the Vice Chairman of the Sani Bello Foundation, Usman Sani Bello said the medical outreach is part of Col. Sani Bello services to humanity.
He said, “Despite security fears, the event proceeded after screening over 3,000 patients. The surgeries carried out exceeded last year’s 550, covering thyroidectomies, myomectomies, hysterectomies, hernia repairs, and over 100 cataract extractions—each worth N90,000-N100,000”.
Bello urged for shared responsibility to meet the nation’s medical needs saying, “We can’t leave everything for the government alone “.
Also speaking, the Chief Surgeon and Chairman of the Graceland Health Development Foundation, Kaduna, Dr. Tort Joseph explained that major procedures and complex cases, like neurofibroma were referred to Kaduna National Eye Centre for treatment on the bill of the Foundation
Beyond surgeries, the foundation said it offered year-round scholarships, vocational training, and a two-year-old malnutrition center aiding over 10 children this year amid economic hardships.
