Dowen College partners foundation to support sickle cell patients

Dowen College Lekki (DCL) has concluded plans to partner with an international non governmental organisation, Sickle Cell Foundation to give succor to those suffering from the disease.

Already, plans are on to establish a bone marrow transplant center for patients living with sickle cell anemia in the country. The Principal, Mrs. Olawumi Togonu-Bickersteth who spoke with reporters during a drama presentation in celebration of DCL 20th anniversary  said  the partnership was necessary following the foundation’s interest to bring the treatment to the country.

“We are partnering with the foundation to raise fund to make the establishment in Nigeria a reality. Other ailments have received lots of public attention, so, we want to shift emphasis that there is another avenue we could channel our charity to.

“Before now, we have partnered with many different organisations that have brought succor to the people. We have helped people living with cancer, HIV/AIDS victims and others, this are charity projects that we do regularly. Our stride is to instill into our children the culture of caring for the less privileged.”

In her remarks, a member of the school board of governors, Dr Toyin Philips stressed the importance of getting the children along in contributing to the course of the less privileged.

Phillips noted that the move would make the children better citizens and responsible to the society. “Charity is very important because Nigeria is still classified among the developing countries; besides there is a wide gap between those who have and those who do not have. Students and children who are privileged to go to schools like Dowen college can be of help to others by encouraging them.

“A little out of their pocket money can be put aside to help those who do not have. That is the way to add to humanity to tell them that they can be their brother’s keeper and help in their own little way.

In the same vein,  Emeritus Professor Soga Sofola who is also a member of DCL board of governors applauded the school  for the partnership.

He said, “The concept of going to school is not just about reading, sports and  drama are also  part of the total development of the child. The sickle cell disease is very common among us, almost 25 percent  of the population.