adminHealth Correspondent
THE Africa University community on Wednesday reached out to a 33-year-old cancer patient, Sebastian Magadu from Old Mutare, after fund-raising $1 280 for his Lymphoma cancer surgical operation on the neck.
Although the operation costs $2 500, the United Methodist-related institution vowed to industriously fund-raise for the remaining balance of $1 220.
Africa University Vice-Chancellor Professor Munashe Furusa said as a church-related institution, such social outreach assistance was fundamental. He thanked the university’s student body and staff for fund-raising for the money and reaching out to the less privileged in community.
“It is part of our DNA and social fabric to mourn with those who mourn and assist those in dire need in our society. As a United Methodist Church-related university it is part of us to reach out to the less privileged. From today, the Magadu family, please know that Africa University is with you, both in prayers and in need. As an institution we understand what you are going through and we are committing ourselves to raise the full amount of $2 500,” said Prof Furusa.
Africa University Chaplain Reverend-Dr Philemon Chikafu, who steered the fund-raiser through his Chaplin’s committee, said he was grateful that the institution understood the concept of ubuntu. Sebastian, who is currently hospitalised at Mutare Provincial Hospital, is expected to undergo the surgical operation at Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals in Harare soon, now that half of the amount has been raised.
His mother, Mrs Margret Chisamba-Magadu, said Sebastian had been suffering from the cancer on the neck since 2006.
Things, however, became serious last year after he underwent a surgical operation and the first phase of chemotherapy treatment, but failed to complete it due to limited funds.
“As a family we had run out of options. It was Sebastian’s aunt, Mrs Gohwa, who approached Rev-Dr Chikafu and here we are today receiving this money. We are so grateful and really hope that God returns 10-fold to all those who contributed towards this donation,” said Mrs Chisamba-Magadu.
During a cancer awareness workshop held recently, the chairman of the Radiation Protection Authority of Zimbabwe, Dr Ntokozo Ndlovu, said there was need to address cancer with the same vigour directed towards eliminating HIV and malaria.
Online Reporter