By Damiete Braide
The Children Living With Cancer Foundation (CLCWF) celebrated its 20th annual Christmas party on December 14 at the Alima Atta Cancer Ward, Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, Idi-Araba.
The event brought joy, love and hope to children battling cancer and their families, creating an atmosphere of warmth and togetherness during the holiday season.
The celebration was packed with exciting activities to lift the spirits of the young patients. Highlights included a dancing contest, and a vibrant fashion parade. The children also had a chance to meet Santa Claus, who distributed various gifts. Ballet dancers and various games added to the festive mood, while parents and children shared meals and connected with one another in a moment of respite from their challenges.
For the first time, the event was held outside the children’s ward, allowing some young patients to celebrate alongside other children. Dr. Nneka Nwobbi, founder of CLCWF, reflected on the significance of the event, emphasizing the importance of love and joy during the festive season. “Christmas is about giving, unity, and bringing happiness to those in need. We want these children to experience as much joy as possible despite their circumstances,” she said.
The celebration was made possible through the generosity of individuals and organisations. The Knights of St. John Catholic Church donated ₦1.2 million to assist with medical bills for six children, while the 7-Fifteen Foundation supported the event with N3.593m as part of the Angel’s Wings Anti-Cancer Initiative, honouring a young cancer victim. Other donors contributed food items and gifts, including bags of rice, groundnut oil, and spaghetti, ensuring that every child and family felt cared for.
Parents expressed gratitude for the support and encouragement they received. Esther Stanley, whose daughter lost a hand to cancer, shared her appreciation: “The help we’ve received has been a blessing. My husband’s business has suffered because of medical expenses, but this support gives us hope.”
Timothy Olanipekun, a cancer survivor, reflected on his journey, recalling how Dr. Nwobbi and CLCWF supported him through treatment. Now a graduate of electrical electronics engineering, he attended the party to inspire others.
Dr. Nwobbi concluded with a heartfelt plea for Nigerians to empathize with families affected by childhood cancer. “These families face enormous challenges. Every donation, prayer, or visit helps. Together, we can bring joy and hope to their lives.”
The CLCWF continues to shine as a beacon of hope, proving that even in the face of adversity, love and compassion can light the way forward.