Cancer Impact Support Services (CISS), a UK and Nigeria-based non-profit organisation, has made a significant donation of life-saving Oxygen cylinders, other medical essentials and food items. This support was given to cancer patients and for the Oncology Department of the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH), Ituku-Ozalla. This initiative is part of CISS’s ongoing efforts to support cancer patients and improve treatment infrastructure across the country and also promote the importance of healthy and nutritional eating habits.

The donation was made on behalf of the organisation by Chioma Udeozo the National Coordinator of CISS Nigeria. She noted that the oxygen cylinders are not just vital medical tools but also a symbol of renewed strength and support for individuals fighting cancer. These gift is about breathing hope into the lives of patients and encouraging survivors that they are seen, supported, and not forgotten, as she handed over the Oxygen Equipments, as well as the Healthy meals been prepared by a dietician to meet the special needs of patients fighting Cancer, which is to enable them understand the importance of Healthy and Nutritional meals during this journey.

Speaking on behalf of the hospital, Dr. Kenneth Nwankwo, Director of the Oncology Department, expressed deep gratitude to CISS for the timely intervention. “We are thankful for this generous donation. It will enhance our emergency response and palliative care capacities,” he said. He further encouraged patients to utilise support programs such as the Cancer Access Program (CAP), National Health Insurance (NHI) and Cancer Health Fund (CHF) to manage treatment-related costs more effectively.

Highlighting the importance of comprehensive care, Dr. Nwankwo reaffirmed the department’s willingness to collaborate with CISS in delivering holistic services to cancer patients.

May Obiorah, Deputy Director of Nursing Services at the Oncology Centre, addressed patients during the event, assuring them of improved treatment planning and compassionate care. “We use advanced simulation techniques to personalise treatment plans. These processes ensure accuracy and improve outcomes for every patient,” she said. She also advised patients to maintain a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables, stressing its role in boosting immunity during chemotherapy.

Geraldine Ugwu, Deputy Director of Nursing Services in the Department of Radiotherapy, emphasised the role of imaging in planning and delivering radiation therapy. “Through CT simulation, we map out tumours to precisely target cancer cells while protecting healthy tissue,” she explained. “Radiation therapy remains a key treatment method and, when well-planned, leads to better outcomes with fewer side effects.”

Also present was Chukwudi Onuchukwu, a valued volunteer with CISS, who offered powerful words of encouragement to patients. Drawing from his own health journey, he urged everyone to maintain a positive mindset and prioritise proper nutrition- “Believe in your healing and stay hopeful,” He shared. “Cancer is not the end – your story of triumph can inspire others tomorrow.”

This vision aligns with the advocacy work of Nnanna Adim, Art Director for CISS, who has consistently championed the role of storytelling and visibility in cancer awareness. As he often says, “Beyond the science of treatment lies the power of being seen and heard. Sharing real stories encourages early diagnosis, breaks stigma, and reminds survivors that they are not alone.” The impact of initiatives like this donation reflects that ethos.

The event was attended by several key personnel from UNTH, including Dorothy Ekeuba, Chief Nursing Officer of the Oncology Department, along with Nkiru Ndibumadu and Obiora Efiofor from the Public Relations Unit, who witnessed the occasion on behalf of the hospital’s management.

CISS Founder and CEO, Chizara Philips, a breast cancer survivor herself, continues to drive the organisation’s mission with unwavering passion. Her experience fuels the charity’s work to support others on their journey, ensuring no one has to face cancer in silence.

This donation is one of the many initiatives under the CISS vision to strengthen health systems, empower survivors, and foster culturally sensitive cancer care in Nigeria and beyond.