CALABAR – In a heart-wrenching appeal, the family of Emmanuel James Nkanu, a 20-year-old man who hails from Yakur Local Government Area of Cross River State, is calling on the government, corporate organisations, and well-meaning individuals to come to their aid and assist them in raising the funds needed for a life-saving heart transplant surgery at the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH), Calabar.
Nkanu, who has been battling Congestive Cardiac Failure and Valvular Heart Disease for almost five years, has seen his health deteriorate significantly over the past few months.
Emmanuel James Nkanu before the heart problem
Despite undergoing various treatments and surgeries, his condition has continued to worsen, leaving him weakened and in dire need of medical attention.
According to his family, the doctors have informed them that a heart transplant is the only option to save Nkanu’s life. However, the cost of the surgery is estimated to be around N6 million, which is far beyond the family’s financial means.
Emmanuel James Nkanu in his current stage with heart disease
Nkanu’s story is particularly heartbreaking, as he was forced to abandon his university education due to his illness. He was a first-year student in the Department of Mass Communication in 2017 at the University of Cross River State but was unable to complete his exams in 2023 due to his deteriorating health.
“We are desperate and heartbroken,” said the 20-year-old’s father, Mr Nkanu, a police officer, fighting back tears. “We have tried everything possible to save our son’s life, but we cannot afford the cost of the surgery. We are begging for help from anyone who can assist us,” he cried.
Nkanu’s mother passed away in 2010, and his father has been working tirelessly to care for him. However, the financial burden of the medical expenses has become overwhelming.
The family has set up a fundraising committee to help raise the needed funds, and they are calling on everyone to support them in this difficult time.
“We are not just asking for financial assistance,” said Mr Nkanu. “We are also asking for prayers and moral support. We need everyone to stand with us and help us save our son’s life,” he added.
As Nkanu’s condition continues to deteriorate, his family is racing against time to raise the funds needed to save his life. They are counting on the good samaritans to help them meet the N6 million target.
“We are praying for a miracle,” said Nkanu’s friend, adding “We are begging for help from anyone who can assist us. We cannot lose our brother and friend.”
The family has provided the following account details for those who wish to donate:
- Account Name: Emmanuel James Nkanu
- Account Number: 8087494617
- Bank: Opay
As the clock ticks away, Nkanu’s family is holding on to hope that they will be able to raise the funds needed to save his life. They are counting on the kindness and generosity of Nigerians to help them make this happen.
See some medical documents below:
