Introduction:
Hello, dear readers! I'm Daniella Uelu, and today I want to take you on a special journey with me. A journey to the heart of my culture, the Igbo tribe in Nigeria, and a personal experience that not only brought me closer to my roots but also opened my eyes to the profound impact of community service.
The Essence of Being Igbo:
Belonging to the Igbo tribe is an integral part of my identity. We are known for our entrepreneurial spirit, delectable ofe Oha, and the exuberant new yam festival. But beyond these, there lies a deep-seated tradition that holds a special place in my heart - returning to our ancestral village.
A Special Year in Abala Ebiri:
This year, our family reunion in Abala Ebiri, a picturesque village in Nigeria's Abia State, was extraordinary. The village, whose name poetically means "When you clear the land well," is a place rich in history and culture. Known as the former habitat of elephants, its people are admired for qualities like boldness, honesty, and strength.
The Medical Outreach Initiative:
The highlight of this year was a medical outreach program initiated by a community member. This selfless act of giving back resonated with me, and I was eager to be a part of it. Despite my usual anxiety and travel sickness, I embarked on a 630km journey to the village, arriving on the festive day of December 25th, 2023.
Volunteering and Making a Difference:
As soon as I learned about the outreach from my aunt, a dedicated nurse in the state, I volunteered without hesitation. The planning phase was already in motion, and the event was set to take place at the village's primary health care center.
Our first task was to procure medications, a mission that led us to the vibrant Aba market. The challenge was to find genuine medicines among the prevalent fakes, a task we accomplished by sourcing from a licensed pharmacy.
A New Experience in Healthcare:
My role in the outreach was to help digitize medical records, a significant shift from the traditional paper method. This role allowed me to interact with many villagers, particularly the elderly, and it was an eye-opening experience. The plight of basic healthcare in rural areas became evident. The lack of health insurance and the necessity for villagers, especially the elderly, to travel long distances for medical care was deeply concerning.
Conclusion:
This experience in Abala Ebiri was more than just a journey back to my roots; it was a wake-up call to the realities of healthcare in rural communities. It strengthened my bond with my heritage and highlighted the importance of community service. It's a reminder of the resilience and hope that define my community and has inspired me to continue contributing positively wherever I can. Thank you for joining me on this journey, and I hope it inspires you to find ways to give back to your community too.
Beautiful 😍