Okwuosa Foundation to Achieve 100 Open-heart Surgery Milestone

This September, the Sir Emeka Okwuosa Foundation (SEOF) will make history by reaching a major milestone by conducting its 100th open-heart surgery since the inception of its Medical Mission and Community Health Fair programme.

SEOF, on Friday, revealed that this landmark achievement will be celebrated during the foundation’s 6th Biannual Medical Mission and Community Health Fair, scheduled for September 19th to October 12th, 2024.
This year’s surgeries will focus on operating on paediatrics for free and adults at a subsidised rate.

The upcoming event will feature a series of open-heart surgeries and interventional cardiology procedures in collaboration with the Vincent Obioma Ohaju Memorial (VOOM) Foundation.

These critical services will be provided at the Dame Irene Okwuosa Memorial Hospital in Oraifite, Anambra State.

Chidimma Okoye, Executive Director of SEOF, highlighted the significance of this milestone.

“Our partnership with VOOM has been crucial in making these surgeries possible. Achieving 100 open-heart surgeries is more than just a numerical goal; it represents the transformative impact we have had on countless lives and the hope we have restored.

“From June 2022 to June 2024, we have completed 89 successful open heart surgeries and four vascular surgery procedures, and this upcoming event will be a pivotal moment in our mission,” she said.

Okoye also emphasised the importance of the event in drawing attention to the foundation’s life-changing work.

“We are incredibly grateful for the steadfast support from our partners and donors. This milestone is a celebration of our collective efforts and a call to action to continue our vital work. Attendees will have the chance to engage with medical experts, learn about advancements in heart surgery, and contribute to the ongoing success of our mission,” she added.

Shawn Andaya Pulliam, Executive Director of the VOOM Foundation, stated that their partnership with SEOF has been instrumental in delivering essential heart surgeries to those who need them most.

Pulliam said, “We are thrilled to be part of this momentous occasion and look forward to celebrating the 100th surgery. This achievement symbolizes hope and healing for many individuals. Together, we are making a tangible difference in the community.”
The Sir Emeka Okwuosa Foundation and the VOOM Foundation urged the public to support their ongoing efforts to improve heart health and provide life-saving treatment to people.