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What I Learned About Giving Back from an Open Heart Surgery Beneficiary
Reflecting on my journey of giving back, I trace its roots back to my university years at the American University of Nigeria. It all began in my first year when every Saturday, a bus would take us to Wuro Hausa in Yola, Adamawa State, to serve the community. Little did I know that this initial step would imprint on me an interest in Non governmental work.
Throughout my time at AUN and now in my professional life as the Media and Communications Coordinator at SEOF, I’ve had the privilege to witness firsthand the transformative power of giving back. My role exposes me to various local and international health workers, volunteers, and community members, each with their own inspiring stories of altruism.
Yet, amidst these tales of compassion, one conversation stands out vividly in my memory. It was with Chinedu, a courageous 16-year-old who underwent open heart surgery during the May/June Medical Mission due to a condition known as “hole in the heart.” This condition had deprived him of the ability to engage in normal day-to-day activities. When asked what he planned to do once he recovered, his response was simple yet profound. Chinedu expressed his desire to give back to his community, inspired by the philanthropic legacy of our founder, Sir Emeka Okwuosa.
Sir Emeka Okwuosa’s commitment to philanthropy knows no bounds. His compassion not only touches lives but also saves them. Chinedu’s life-changing surgery was made possible because of this compassion. Without it, his future would have been uncertain.
From Chinedu’s story and my own experiences, I’ve gleaned several valuable lessons about giving back:
Volunteering is a Thankless Job: Often, those who give their time and effort to others go unnoticed. Yet, the impact they make is immeasurable. Every small act of kindness contributes to a larger, positive change in someone’s life.
Compassion is Life-Saving: The genuine care and empathy shown by individuals like Sir Emeka Okwuosa and countless volunteers are not just gestures; they are lifelines. They provide hope, comfort, and sometimes even the means for life-saving medical interventions.
Giving Back is Always Worth It: Whether it’s through volunteering time, donating resources, or simply lending a listening ear, giving back enriches both the giver and the receiver. It creates a ripple effect of positivity that extends far beyond the initial act.
Kamso’s determination to pay forward the kindness shown to him reminds me why I embarked on this journey of service in the first place. It’s not about recognition or accolades but about making a tangible difference in someone’s life, no matter how small.
As I continue my work at SEOF and beyond, I carry with me the stories of Chinedu and others like him. They are reminders of the power we each hold to uplift and empower others through selfless acts of kindness. Ultimately, giving back isn’t just something we do; it’s a reflection of our humanity and a testament to the profound impact of compassion.