The Rotary Club of Lagos successfully hosted its annual Rotary Family Health Day, providing free basic healthcare, screenings, and wellness education to over 100 indigent community members in Lagos Island.
The outreach, held at Freedom Park Lagos Island, delivered crucial services, including comprehensive general check-ups, free dental and eye screenings, and clinical diagnosis with referrals for advanced treatment at partner hospitals.
The initiative aligns with Rotary International’s December theme of Disease Prevention and Treatment, aiming to foster a healthier and more prosperous society by ensuring access to essential medical care for the underserved.
Rotarian Bolanle Opadokun, Chairperson of the Organising Committee, set the tone in her opening speech, emphasizing that the event is “more than an event. It is a statement of who we are, a world where everyone has access to basic health services, dignity, and hope.” She extended profound gratitude to the medical teams from LASUTH and FARATORI Eye Centre, as well as the Rotarians, volunteers, and sponsors whose dedication powered the outreach.
The President of the Rotary Club of Lagos, Rotarian Toki Mabogunje, highlighted the event’s purpose: “We are meant to be able to give access to people around us to education around disease prevention and free access to medical healthcare.” She called upon other well-meaning Nigerians and organizations to join the act of humanitarian service, stressing that in a country with a large population, more interventions are needed for the under-served.
The day featured impactful health talks designed to promote preventative care. Keynote speaker Jumoke Surakatu stressed the importance of knowing one’s body metrics (sugar, blood pressure, weight, and height) and prioritizing a balanced diet rich in vegetables. She also underscored the vital role of adequate daily water intake and rest, urging attendees to manage stress.
Dr. Mercy Elijah provided essential guidance on dental health, advising community members to brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, use a soft or medium brush, and seek professional care for dental issues, dismissing harmful traditional remedies like using ogogoro or paracetamol for a toothache.
Beneficiaries expressed their gratitude for the initiative. Taofik Olamilekan discovered he had an ulcer during his screening and was optimistic about the provided medication. Yetunde Sonni received treatment for malaria and typhoid and appreciated the valuable health education. John Chibuzo, whose high blood pressure was detected, was grateful for the dental care and high blood pressure medication he received.
The Rotary Club of Lagos continues to demonstrate its unwavering commitment to community health, affirming that a single health check or conversation can save a life and uplift a whole family.
