Empowering Communities Through Health

 

St Gerard Majella Hospital Ahiara, Imo. Nigeria is finally open!

 

On February 12th, 2025, St. Gerard Majella Hospital, a dream nurtured for over twenty years, finally became a reality with its inauguration. This facility, which opened its doors to patients, was the brainchild of Mr. Kieran O. Eke, whose vision for a healthier community began to take shape nearly twenty years ago. With the generous financial support of the Eke Healthy Living Initiative Inc., the hospital was completed and equipped to serve the local community by providing accessible, high-quality healthcare at an affordable cost.

St. Gerard Majella Hospital

The Outreach

On the day of its launch, the hospital hosted a two-day healthcare outreach event focused on diabetes, high blood pressure, malaria, and hepatitis B awareness, testing, and prevention, solidifying the hospital’s commitment to improving community health. The event was a resounding success, bringing together healthcare professionals, volunteers, and community members to make a tangible difference in the lives of over 150 participants.

Here’s a recap of the impactful two days.















Day 1: Awareness and Preliminary Screening










The first day of the outreach was dedicated to education and general wellness checks that included blood glucose screening for diabetes, rapid diagnostic tests for malaria, and blood pressure screening for High Blood Pressure, as well as addressing other prevalent health concerns in the community. 

All attending participants received medications for Malaria prevention, diuretics for participants with high blood pressure issues, as well as other daily vitamins.  The healthcare team from St. Gerard Majella Hospital, alongside volunteers from Eke Healthy Living Initiative Inc., worked tirelessly to ensure that each participant received personalized attention. They provided appropriate treatment for confirmed cases and effectively managed non-malarial fevers. They also promote environmental measures to reduce mosquito breeding areas. 

They Identify individuals at risk of or with undiagnosed diabetes and provide diabetes self-management education (DSME) sessions. They also offer guidance on diet, physical activity, and medication adherence. The day was bustling with activity; more than 150 participants turned out to take advantage of the free screenings, medications, and food and to learn more about their health. The enthusiasm and engagement from the community were inspiring. Many attendees expressed gratitude for the opportunity to learn about their health status and take proactive steps toward better well-being.  














Day 2: Hepatitis B Testing and Results










The second day of the outreach was focused specifically on Hepatitis B testing.





Hepatitis B, a silent but serious liver infection, was the primary focus. Many people are unaware of their status until the disease causes significant health complications. Early detection and education are critical to preventing its spread and managing its impact.





The turnout was equally impressive, with about 65 participants returning for the test. The outreach included screening, providing medication, and educating on prevention.





Of the 65 patients tested, approximately 12.3% (8 participants) tested positive for Hepatitis B. While this result is concerning, it underscores the importance of such outreach programs. Early detection allows for timely intervention, which can prevent the progression of the disease and reduce the risk of complications such as liver cirrhosis or cancer. The patients who tested positive were immediately referred for further evaluation and treatment. The healthcare team also provided counseling on how to manage the condition, prevent transmission to others, and maintain a healthy lifestyle.








































The Bigger Picture





This 2-day outreach was more than just a health event—it was a testament to the power of community and collaboration. By bringing together healthcare providers, volunteers, and community members, we were able to:





    

  • Involve community health workers to build trust, improve service uptake, and tailor interventions to local needs
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  • Educate communities about malaria prevention and symptoms
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  • Provide diabetes self-management education (DSME) sessions
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  • Connect with vulnerable groups, such as old folks who lack the means of getting medical care
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  • Raise awareness about Hepatitis B and other health concerns.
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  • Provide life-saving screenings to those who might not otherwise have access.
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  • Empower individuals with knowledge and resources to take control of their health.
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The 12.3% positivity rate for Hepatitis B reminds us of the importance of regular testing and education and highlights the need for continued efforts to combat this disease, particularly in underserved communities.













A Call to Action: Join Us in Making a Difference





While we are proud of our progress, there is still much work to be done. Hepatitis B and other health challenges continue to affect the community, and we need your support to expand our efforts.





We invite organizations, corporations, and individuals who share our vision to join us in this cause. Your donations will go directly toward:





    

  • Funding free health screenings and awareness campaigns.
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  • Providing healthcare treatment for patients who can not afford it.
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  • Supporting the ongoing operations of St. Gerard Majella Hospital to ensure it continues to serve the community effectively.
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