On a warm December morning in 2023, Mrs. Amadi, a 65-year-old grandmother from the small village of Umuezeala, rose with a sense of both anticipation and trepidation. For years, she had suffered from a persistent pain in her lower abdomen, a discomfort that worsened over time but remained untreated due to her inability to afford medical care. Her days, once filled with the vibrant energy of caring for her grandchildren and tending to her small farm, had become a battle against pain and fatigue.
When she heard that the League of Old Isu Professionals was organizing a free medical mission in her community, a flicker of hope ignited in her heart. Could this be the answer to her prayers? Could she finally find relief from the ailment that had plagued her for so long? With a mixture of hope and anxiety, she made her way to Isu High School, where the medical mission was being held.
Upon arrival, she was greeted by a team of compassionate healthcare professionals who treated her with dignity and care. After a thorough examination, it was determined that Mrs. Amadi needed surgery for a hernia, a condition that had gone undiagnosed for years. Thanks to the medical mission, she received the surgery she so desperately needed—completely free of charge. As she recovered, the gratitude she felt was overwhelming; she had been given a new lease on life, a chance to return to the activities she loved and the family who depended on her.
Medical Mission 4 (MM4): A Tradition of Giving Back
The story of Mrs. Amadi is just one of many that illustrate the profound impact of the League of Old Isu Professionals’ Medical Mission 4 (MM4), held on December 27-28, 2023. Under the affectionate leadership of Dr. Randie Dikeukwu, the Ambassador General, the League continues to embody the spirit of “think-home,” a tradition deeply rooted in the Igbo culture of giving back to one’s community.
Inspired by the ants’ model of working tirelessly and returning home with their harvest, the League’s members, many of whom live far from Isu, have made it their mission to bring much-needed resources back to their homeland. This philosophy, akin to the Igbo axiom “akụ ruo ụlọ” (wealth that reaches home), drives their efforts to support those in Isu-Na-Eliligbaraọgụ who are less fortunate.
A Community United by Generosity
The success of MM4 was made possible by the generous donations and unwavering support of both the League’s members and their extended network of friends and associates. Among the notable donors were Dr. Randie Dikeukwu, High Chief Michael Onuoha, the Akano Foundation, Dr. Kennedy Iwundu, Hon. Ugonna Ozurigbo, the Ezedike Foundation, Hon. Amara Chyna Iwuanyanwu, Chief Aloysius Osuji, and Barr Emeka Duruakụ, among others. These individuals and organizations, driven by a deep sense of responsibility and love for their community, ensured that the mission had the resources needed to make a significant impact.
The Impact of Medical Mission 4
MM4 took place in two key locations: Isu High School, Isu, and the Health Centre at Ụmụọzụ. At Isu High School, general medical treatments were provided, including eye tests, dental care, blood pressure and sugar level checks, prescription services, and the distribution of free medications. The dedicated team at this location was led by Dr. Amauche Osunwoke, who coordinated the mission, with support from professionals such as Dr. Chigozie Chukwuoha (Optometry), Dr. Nnaji Theresa Nneka (Dental), Tech. Nnawụihe Angela (Laboratory Services), and Farm. Uchenna Mmadụmere (Pharmacy).
Meanwhile, the Health Centre at Ụmụọzụ catered to more specialized medical needs, particularly surgeries. Under the leadership of Dr. Anthony Diọgụ Chidị, assisted by Dr. Nnọzụba and other skilled professionals, surgeries were performed for conditions such as appendicitis, hernias, and tumors—procedures that would have been out of reach for many due to their prohibitive costs.
In total, over 800 individuals from Isu-Na-Eliligbaraọgụ received free medical treatment during MM4, saving the community an estimated N30 million. The mission not only provided immediate relief but also reinforced the community’s sense of solidarity and mutual support.
