#SaveEdijala: UNILAG graduate needs N15m for surgery in sickle cell battle

Emuesiri Rita Edijala is desperately in need of funds to survive her battle with sickle cell anaemia.

Edijala has been diagnosed with avascular necrosis of the left femur (hip bone) and needs a total hip replacement surgery.

The surgery, which will take place in India, will cause Edijala at least N15million.

The 29-year-old graduate of business administration from the University of Lagos put out a rallying call to the public on her Facebook, explaining that “If the head of the femur breaks and punctures a vein I might not make it to the hospital alive.”

Read Edijala’s touching plea below;

“My name is Emuesiri Rita Edijala, a graduate of business administration from the university of Lagos, I am 29 years old and I have lived with sickle cell anaemia all my life, it hasn’t being easy; there were times when I felt like the pain was too much, times when I thought it was all over, but I have always believed that there’s a part I have to play, something I have to give and this dream has helped me remain resilient in my fight to live and contribute my quota to humanity.

“Five years ago I was diagnosed with avascular necrosis of the left femur (hip bone),one of the many ailments associated with my genotype. And since then it has deteriorated further due to constant usage of the leg. The diagnosing doctors have advised a total hip replacement surgery(THR), extensive delay or failure to do as advised could lead to collapse of the hip bone or damage of the femoral artery. In lay man terms, If the head of the femur breaks and punctures a vein I might not make it to the hospital alive. I have attached my medical report regarding this issue.

“The total cost envisaged for the surgery in India is 15 million naira. I am writing this because I need your kind help. My life has been on hold since this issue started. I manage a food delivery service and from every little I make, I try to help my family and give back to humanity in the best way I can. I have a lot of potential and there’s still so much I want to do. Please help me. Help me live my dreams beyond the limitations of sickle cell anemia.”