The Anambra State Albinism Association (ASAA) has launched a N24 million appeal fund to support its members facing skin cancer and other health challenges.
ASAA Chairman, Ben Orizu, while speaking at the fund’s launch in Awka, the state capital, highlighted the loss of four members due to skin cancer and inadequate medical care.
These members included Enemuo Ifeanyi (27), who passed away in 2021; Peter Raymond (25), in 2022; Ekemezie Precious (24), who succumbed in 2023; and Abuone Ijeoma (46), who passed away this year.
Orizu also noted that many other members are currently battling various illnesses. The trust fund aims to provide essential services such as eye care, protective clothing and accessories, dermatological treatments, cancer awareness and support, and funding for chemotherapy for Joseph Okoye, who urgently requires N1.5 million.
Speakers at the event included Professor Emeka Obiozor, Director of the Centre for Disability and Special Needs Research (CENDASNER), and Ugochukwu Okeke, Anambra State Chairman of the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD).
They called on the government to eliminate all forms of discrimination against people with albinism, highlighting the urgent need for sun protection for this community.
They also stressed the importance of legislation to address the specific needs of persons with disabilities.