At just three months old, little Chidimma Dibua was diagnosed with a large Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD), a heart condition that prevented her heart from pumping blood properly. As a result, Chidimma began to suffer from Failure to Thrive (FTT)—a condition that affected her growth, energy, and overall health. Her parents, especially her mother, watched in fear and helplessness as their youngest child struggled with the fatigue and limitations of her condition.
Chidimma, the last of her siblings, was the joy of the family. Despite her health struggles, her beautiful smile and happy face always shone through, catching the heart of anyone who met her. She had an infectious energy, always “camera-ready” and full of life, making her family’s love for her even stronger. Her older siblings adored her, and they were constantly by her side, eager to see her smile, despite the heavy burden of her illness.
For two years, Chidimma’s parents did everything they could to care for their precious daughter. They had to limit her activities to protect her heart, and the constant worry about her condition took an emotional toll on the entire family. Doctors initially recommended open heart surgery to correct the large VSD, a procedure that was both costly and intimidating. The family feared the risks of such an invasive surgery, but they knew that without it, Chidimma’s health would only worsen.
Then, the family was referred to Dame Irene Okwuosa Memorial Hospital—a place known for its advanced pediatric care and expertise in heart surgeries for children. The hospital team evaluated Chidimma’s condition and recommended open heart surgery as the best course of action. For her family, this was a long-awaited moment of hope.
Chidimma’s surgery took place in September 2024, and the procedure was a complete success. The hospital staff worked tirelessly to ensure that the surgery went smoothly, and within just four days, Chidimma was discharged. Her recovery was quick, and her family was overjoyed to see their little girl back to her cheerful self in no time.
Chidimma’s smile, which had always been a beacon of hope during her illness, now became a symbol of triumph. She was once again free to play, run, and enjoy life like any other child her age. Her parents were deeply grateful to see her strong, healthy, and full of energy. The joy and relief in their hearts were immeasurable.
Chidimma’s story also highlights an important issue: open heart surgery should be accessible to all children, regardless of their economic background. Thanks to the care she received at Dame Irene Okwuosa Memorial Hospital, Chidimma was able to receive the life-saving surgery she desperately needed. For families who face financial barriers, having access to high-quality healthcare is crucial. No child should be deprived of life-saving treatments simply because of their family’s financial situation.
Now, as she recovers and grows stronger, Chidimma’s future looks bright. Her family is grateful to have her back to her playful, joyful self—no longer limited by her heart condition. And Chidimma, with her beautiful smile and endless charm, continues to light up the lives of everyone around her. Her journey is a testament to the power of accessible, life-saving healthcare, and the incredible impact that surgery can have on a child’s life. Thanks to the care she received, Chidimma is not just surviving—she’s thriving. Her story is a powerful reminder that every child deserves the chance to live a healthy, happy life.