NGO seeks additional funds for kidney transplant after N1m donation

A 16-year-old kidney failure patient, Nwachukwu Collette Oghenekome, has received a lifeline following a donation of N1 million from the Gifting Volunteer Network (GVN).

The donation was made after a media appeal highlighted her condition in the Shomolu area of Lagos State.

Collette was diagnosed with kidney failure in July 2024.

Her mother, Mrs Rhoda Nwachukwu, a widow, disclosed that the family has exhausted all their resources in managing her condition. She explained that Collette has been undergoing dialysis sessions costing N60,000 each, with over 20 sessions already conducted. According to her, doctors at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH) have recommended a kidney transplant estimated to cost N20 million as the only viable solution.

Narrating her ordeal, Mrs Nwachukwu said, “My child was diagnosed with kidney failure, and we have been managing her for the past eight months. I was told the only solution is a kidney transplant. I appreciate the Gifting Volunteer Network for coming to my aid and not leaving a poor widow alone. I have no one to turn to since I lost my husband 13 years ago.”

Moved by Collette’s plight, the founder of GVN, David Tamarau-Kuro Belele, mobilised efforts to raise N1 million to support the family. Speaking during the presentation of the funds, Belele revealed that the organisation initiated a crowdfunding campaign in January 2025 and leveraged digital marketing, paid advertisements, and media partnerships to secure the donation.

“This presentation demonstrates our commitment to providing financial support to those who cannot afford medical bills. She still needs N19 million, and this is just the beginning.”

We are urging well-meaning Nigerians to join us in our efforts to save her life,” Belele said.

He added that the organisation remains dedicated to making a difference in the community and thanked supporters, especially media platforms, for their contributions to the campaign.