Date: 19th February, 2025.
Location: Ukamaka Cottage Hospital, Akpakwume/Nze
Introduction
On the 19th of February, 2025, Ukamaka Cottage Hospital held a one-year anniversary of the reopening of the hospital and was well attended by the CIDJAP staff- Rev. Fr. Chidiebere Paul Ani, (Deputy Director), Dr. Ebele Odinachi (Project Manager), Mrs Uche Oji (CIDJAP accountant), Mrs Julie Okenwa (Registrar-CIDJAP Academy), Sr. Theresa Okechukwu(Accountant), Ms Ngozi(Secretary).
This significant event celebrated the hospital's journey and its impact on the local community since its reopening. The day was marked by a solemn Holy Mass, insightful health talks, and an engaging address from the Director of Projects. Villagers expressed their heartfelt appreciation for the services provided by the hospital and the positive changes it has brought to their lives.
SUMMARY OF EVENTS
1. Holy Mass Celebration:
The celebration began with a Holy Mass at about 12.45 pm, led by Rev. Fr. Chidiebere Paul Ani, Deputy Director-CIDJAP and concelebrated by Rev. Fr. Jacob Okonkwo, the Parish Priest of St. Augustine, Akpakwume/Nze, the community members, and CIDJAP staff. The Mass was a moment of reflection and gratitude for the healing and support provided by the hospital over the past year. During his Homily, Fr. Chidiebere reflected on the readings of the day, laying more emphasis on the Gospel taken from Mark 8:22-26 which presented Jesus’ healing of a blind man.
Here, the homilist narrated how Jesus' method of healing the blind man was filled with compassion. Stating that it is this same compassion that moved Msgr. Prof. Obiora Ike, thinking of the challenges being faced by the people of Akpakwume/Nze and deciding to come and establish this Hospital, Fr. Chidiebere went on to admonish all to be compassionate and in a special way, urged the hospital's healthcare workers never fail to imitate Jesus in the discharge of their duties. Prayers were then offered for the continued success of the hospital and for the health and well-being of the community.
2. Address by the Director of Projects:
Following the mass, the Director of Projects, Dr. Ebele Odinachi, delivered an address highlighting the achievements of Ukamaka Cottage Hospital since its reopening. Key points included:
- The improved healthcare services and facilities that have been made available to the local population.
- Initiatives aimed at increasing community awareness about health issues.
- Partnerships with local organizations to enhance healthcare delivery.
The Director emphasized the importance of community involvement in sustaining the hospital's efforts and urged residents to continue supporting these initiatives.
3. Health Talks by the Doctor:
Within the programme, the hospital's doctor, Dr. Ifeanyi, conducted health talks focusing on various pertinent topics, including:
- Preventative healthcare measures centering on hygiene, hand washing, etc.
- The importance of regular health check-ups.
- The danger of patronizing quacks and chemists
The talks were highly educating, fostering a deeper understanding of health issues and encouraging villagers to take proactive steps in managing their health.
4. Villagers' Responses:
Representative from the village, Chief Cletus Akah expressed their gratitude through brief speeches. Comments included:
- Appreciation for the accessible healthcare services provided by Ukamaka Cottage Hospital. He, on behalf of the community, thanked Msgr. Prof. Obiora Ike for remembering and coming to their aid.
- He also recognized the improvements in health outcomes since the hospital's reopening.
- He then, acknowledged the hospital staff's dedication and compassion in serving the community.
Villagers articulated a strong commitment to working alongside the hospital to promote health education and preventative care in the community.
Conclusion
The one-year anniversary of the reopening of Ukamaka Cottage Hospital served not only as a celebration of the services rendered but also as a reminder of the important role that healthcare plays in sustaining community well-being. CIDJAP staff members left the event inspired and encouraged by the community's response and the collaborative spirit displayed throughout the day. The event solidified the partnership between the hospital and the villagers, paving the way for continued growth and improvement in healthcare delivery.
