The Delta Central Diabetes Sensitisation and Testing Medical Outreach kicked off in Sapele on Wednesday, drawing a large crowd that gathered well before the official start, eager to take advantage of free health screenings and expert medical advice.
By 8 a.m., the hall was already filled with elderly men, women, and young people waiting to check their blood sugar levels and learn more about preventing diabetes. The event, themed “Come Check Your Sugar Level O!”, was organised by Senator Ede Dafinone’s office in partnership with the National Health Fellows, with a focus on prevention, lifestyle changes, and early detection of the disease.
For many elderly residents, the program offered a valuable opportunity to access affordable healthcare and health education. Madam Grace Okotie, a 67-year-old trader, called it a blessing. “I came early because I understand how dangerous diabetes can be. At my age, I don’t want to wait until I’m sick before taking action. I’m grateful to Senator Dafinone for thinking of people like us,” she said.
Mrs. Comfort Awharhe, 59, shared similar feelings. “Many people in our community can’t afford hospital visits. Today, I got tested for free and learned how to better manage my diet. I’m really thankful to Senator Dafinone for making this accessible to us,” she said.
Among the men, 71-year-old Pa Michael Emonena described the outreach as “timely and life-saving.” He shared, “I lost a friend last year due to complications from diabetes. If he had access to something like this, maybe he’d still be here today. I’m grateful to the senator for giving us hope.”
Another participant, 54-year-old Mr. Samson Orovwuje, said he made sure to arrive early after hearing about the event. “The health workers explained everything in simple terms. Now I understand the importance of exercise and cutting down on sugar. Programs like this need to keep happening,” he said.
Health workers at the event praised the initiative as a strong step in the fight against diabetes. Nurse Bridget Efe mentioned that many people were being tested for the first time. “Today, they know their health status and what steps to take next. We should thank Senator Dafinone because real progress starts with grassroots health efforts,” she said.
Atahine Ogho Eguono, a member of the National Health Fellows, told Vanguard that the program aims to address the problem of late diagnosis, which often leads to serious complications. “Many patients only find out they have diabetes after suffering a stroke, kidney failure, or losing their sight. That’s why early detection and awareness are so important. This program will save lives,” he explained.
Speaking on behalf of Senator Dafinone, Chief Patrick Akavmoba emphasized that the outreach reflects the senator’s dedication to healthcare at the grassroots level. “The Senator believes prevention is both better and more affordable than treatment. This is just the start. Beyond diabetes, he plans to support more outreach programs in other health areas, making sure no one is left behind,” he assured.
The event included free medical tests, counseling, and health talks focusing on diet, exercise, and the risks of ignoring early signs of diabetes. Volunteers helped manage the large crowd, while experts shared practical advice for healthier living.
Residents described the outreach as a “rare gift,” pointing out that the early, huge turnout showed how much the community needs accessible healthcare. “By 8 a.m., the place was already packed. That tells you just how important this is to people,” one participant said.
The medical outreach will continue in all eight Local Government Areas of Delta Central from October 1 to 18, with activities starting at 9 a.m. each day. Organizers are hopeful that the success of the Sapele launch will create a lasting positive impact throughout the senatorial district. As one health worker remarked, “This is more than just a medical outreach; it’s a lifeline.”
