In an extraordinary display of unity and compassion, Nigerians have raised $25,000 (₦37,500,000) in just four days to save the life of Dr. Taiwo Orimogunje, a Senior Registrar in the Department of Radiology at the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan. Dr. Orimogunje, affectionately known as Oris, was diagnosed with a spontaneous subarachnoid hemorrhage and required emergency endovascular coiling to prevent a life-threatening outcome.
The urgent appeal for financial contributions was made on June 3, 2024, at 11:13 PM by the Association of Resident Doctors (ARD) at UCH, Ibadan. Renowned for his dedication to patient care and his significant contributions as a past Speaker of the House of Representatives within ARD-UCH, Orimogunje’s sudden illness mobilized an overwhelming response from colleagues and the public.
The call for assistance was led by Dr. Oladapo John, President of ARD-UCH, who sent out an urgent SOS via X (formerly Twitter), emphasizing the dire need for $25,000 (₦37,500,000) to cover the cost of the emergency procedure. His post highlighted Orimogunje’s critical condition and his relentless commitment to patient care and the welfare of his colleagues.
“Oris is known for his vocal proactivity about patient care. He serves and cares with the same passion he brings into the welfare of the UCH resident, HOs, and med officer. Now we stand defiantly in the face of this diagnosis and buoy ourselves up with the Can-do attitude of all Nigerians. Help us save this exceptional fine Dr. Help us raise this fund. Let us save Oris,” Dr. John wrote.
The Nigerian Doctor, a prominent X user, played a pivotal role in amplifying the plea for help. Through persistent updates, calls to action, and personal advocacy, Nigerian Doctor rallied the community, urging immediate donations and widespread sharing of Dr. Orimogunje’s plight. The engagement on social media was intense, with numerous individuals and groups contributing to the cause.
Donations poured in from across the nation, with significant contributions from colleagues, friends, and even strangers moved by the urgency of the situation. Seun Sulaiman, a former Public Relations Officer of ARD-UCH, highlighted the critical need for funds and provided additional avenues for donations, including a GoFundMe campaign.
The efforts of The Nigerian Doctor and others did not go unnoticed by key figures and institutions. Appeals for intervention were directed towards prominent leaders, including the Minister of Health and the state governors, emphasizing Dr. Orimogunje’s contributions and the urgent need for their assistance.
By 3:50 PM on June 7, the necessary funds were successfully raised, allowing Dr. Orimogunje to undergo the lifesaving procedure. Following the successful surgery, gratitude poured in from all corners. Dr. Oladapo John expressed profound thanks on behalf of ARD-UCH, acknowledging the collective effort that made the life-saving intervention possible.
“Dr. Orimogunje has had his surgery and is recovering well. In despair, we asked for help. And you responded, clearly, unequivocally, unreservedly. You helped us reach our target. We are awed by the amazing outflow of love and help that Dr. Orimogunje received. Thank you for turning a potential tragedy into a triumph. Because of you, we won! Dr. Orimogunje won!” read an official appreciation flyer from ARD-UCH.
The Nigerian Doctor’s relentless advocacy was particularly lauded, with many recognizing the crucial role played in mobilizing support and ensuring the story reached a wide audience. Colleagues and supporters celebrated the unity and resolve demonstrated during this critical time.
As Dr. Orimogunje begins his recovery, the success of this campaign stands as a testament to the power of collective action and the indomitable spirit of Nigerians rallying to save one of their own. The medical community and beyond remain hopeful and committed to supporting Dr. Orimogunje’s journey to full recovery
Nigerians united to raise $25,000 (₦37,500,000) in four days to save Dr. Taiwo Orimogunje, a University College Hospital, Ibadan Senior Registrar in Radiology, diagnosed with a life-threatening subarachnoid hemorrhage. The appeal for financial assistance was issued on June 3, 2024, by the Association of Resident Doctors (ARD) at UCH through X (formerly Twitter), led by ARD-UCH President Dr. Oladapo John.
Dr. John highlighted Orimogunje's dedication to patient care and urged immediate help. The Nigerian Doctor, a prominent X user, played a crucial role in mobilizing the community to donate and spread the word. Contributions poured in from colleagues, friends, and strangers, with additional avenues like a GoFundMe campaign initiated by Seun Sulaiman, a former ARD-UCH Public Relations Officer.
By June 7, the funds were successfully raised, allowing Orimogunje to undergo the necessary procedure. The ARD-UCH expressed profound gratitude for the overwhelming support, noting the collective effort that turned a potential tragedy into a triumph. The success of the campaign underscores the power of collective action and the strong spirit of Nigerians in rallying to save a life.
