Vol 1: Healing Journey

A few weeks ago, my mum, Mrs. Nnenna Ukonu, insisted I join her on a medical outreach in our hometown, Asaga, Ohafia in Abia State. I didn’t know what to expect—but I went, camera in hand, ready to support in any way I could. What I didn’t realize was how deeply moving and humbling the experience would be.

This time, my mum partnered with a group of doctors to respond to a growing health issue in the community, hernia cases. After speaking with the Eze Mateta of Asaga, she rallied support from Nigerians home and abroad, especially Asaga community members in the diaspora.

The response was incredible. Despite limited resources, support poured in from generous individuals who wanted to make a difference. The target was to conduct 36 hernia surgeries. In just two days, 22 surgeries were successfully completed, and the medical team will return soon to continue, as more contributions come in.

As someone who’s always behind the lens, I found myself right in the heart of it all. I entered the surgery room for a quick documentation round, what I wasn’t prepared for was the sight of blood. Let’s just say... it changed my day completely.

I was assisted by two outstanding corps members—David and Precious, who helped with behind-the-scenes content, offering their time and energy without hesitation.

Special thanks to Dr. Solomon Abonyi, a corps member who first raised the alarm about the growing number of untreated hernia cases in the area. Without his voice, none of this may have happened.

And finally, heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Dillibe Uchenna, Consultant General Surgeon from the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH), and the selfless team of doctors who gave their all, working tirelessly for two days straight to bring relief to many.

This outreach reminded me of the power of community, the urgency of care, and how ordinary people doing small things can spark real change.

A Healing Journey