The Delta Central Diabetes Sensitisation and Testing Medical Outreach began in Sapele on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, with an overwhelming response from residents who arrived hours before the official start time to benefit from the free healthcare initiative.
By 8:00 a.m., the venue was already filled with elderly men, women, and youths eager to test their blood sugar levels and receive health education. The programme, themed “Come Check Your Sugar Level O!”, was organised by the office of Senator Ede Dafinone in collaboration with the National Health Fellows. It focused on prevention, lifestyle changes, and early detection of diabetes.
For many participants, especially the elderly, the outreach was both a rare opportunity and a timely intervention. Madam Grace Okotie, a 67-year-old trader, expressed gratitude:
“I came early because I know how serious diabetes can be. At my age, I don’t want to wait until sickness catches me before I act. I thank Senator Dafinone for remembering people like us. This programme is a blessing.”
Mrs. Comfort Awharhe, 59, shared a similar sentiment:
“In our community, many cannot afford regular hospital checks. Today, I was tested free of charge and also learned how to manage my diet. I am truly grateful.”
For others, the initiative carried a personal weight. Pa Michael Emonena, 71, described it as “timely and life-saving,” recalling how he lost a friend to diabetes complications.
Mr. Samson Orovwuje, 54, also lauded the effort:
“The health workers explained things in simple terms. Now I know the importance of exercise and avoiding too much sugar. This kind of programme should continue.”
Healthcare professionals praised the outreach for bridging critical gaps in grassroots health. Nurse Bridget Efe noted:
“Many people here have never been tested before. Today, they know their status and what to do next. This is where the battle against diabetes must begin.”
Atahine Ogho Eguono of the National Health Fellows stressed the importance of early detection:
“Too often, patients only discover diabetes after complications like stroke, kidney failure, or blindness. That’s why sensitisation like this is crucial. It will save lives.”
Speaking on behalf of Senator Dafinone, his representative, Chief Patrick Akavmoba, emphasised the senator’s commitment to preventive healthcare:
“The Senator believes prevention is better and cheaper than cure. This is only the beginning. Beyond diabetes, he plans to support more medical outreaches to ensure no one is left behind.”
The outreach featured free blood sugar testing, counselling, health talks, and lifestyle education. Volunteers and medical experts guided participants through practical steps on healthy diets, regular exercise, and recognising early warning signs of diabetes.
Residents described the programme as a “rare gift,” with the heavy turnout highlighting the community’s urgent need for affordable healthcare. As one participant observed:
“By 8 a.m., the place was already full. That shows how much people need this.”
Following the successful launch in Sapele, the outreach team is scheduled to tour all eight Local Government Areas in Delta Central between October 1 and 18, with events set to begin at 9:00 a.m. daily.
Health workers expressed optimism that the programme would leave a lasting impact. As one put it:
“This is more than a medical outreach—it is a lifeline.”
