By Aduragbemi Omiyale
It was a moment of joy that would not be forgotten for a long time for residents of Rivers State on Saturday, September 23, 2023, as the O.B. Lulu-Briggs Foundation distributed some blood pressure monitors to them.
The organisation gave out the items to celebrate its 22nd anniversary. Apart from the items distributed, the company also carried out free screenings and high blood medication.
It was gathered that almost 400 persons benefitted from the gesture, including the young and old at the La Sien Pavilion, Old GRA Port Harcourt, the state capital.
The Chairman of the O.B. Lulu-Briggs Foundation, Dr Seinye O.B. Lulu-Briggs, said the focus on high blood pressure for the 22nd-anniversary celebration was deliberate.
She described high blood pressure as a silent killer, noting that data from the World Health Organisation (WHO) estimates 1.28 billion adults aged 30-79 to have hypertension, with most (two-thirds) living in low and middle-income countries.
The philanthropist added that though hypertension is a significant cause of premature death worldwide, it can be managed and prevented through awareness and lifestyle choices.
“Today’s awareness programme on high blood pressure affirms our commitment to preventive health. It is a small but vital step toward a healthier, more informed society.
“By spreading knowledge about the causes and risks of high blood pressure, we empower individuals to take control of their health. We give them the tools to make informed decisions and seek medical attention,” Dr Lulu-Briggs said.
Speaking on the anniversary, she gave gratitude to God for the successes recorded so far. She also acknowledged the support of her late husband, High Chief O.B. Lulu-Briggs, children, friends, partners and staff who have been with the foundation since its establishment in 2001.
Dr Lulu-Briggs said the foundation had tirelessly worked towards uplifting people’s health, education and economic standing, prioritising improving people’s health, mainly “those in rural areas who don’t have access to quality healthcare and have not left behind, those in the urban areas, while ensuring that our senior citizens continue to receive loving care.”
“[The journey] has been guided by the unwavering belief, that we are chosen vessels crucial to the upliftment of Nigerians and Nigeria.
“We have strived to educate, empower, and uplift the lives of countless individuals. Through our various programs and initiatives, we have tackled health and education issues head-on and made a significant impact,” Dr Lulu-Briggs, who admitted that there were low moments, stated.
In her lecture on the anniversary’s theme, Rise Above High Blood Pressure, a consultant cardiologist at the University of Port-Harcourt, Dr Sotonye Dodiyi-Manuel, advised attendees to reduce salt intake because it is a major cause of hypertension.
She also asked them to reduce alcohol consumption, have regular check-ups, exercise, and include more fruits and vegetables in their diets.
At the event, about 230 people received blood pressure kits and medication free of charge, while 85 people received prescribed medications only.
The 22nd anniversary began on Wednesday, September 20, with a 5-kilometre Walk for Life for high blood pressure and included a thanksgiving service on Thursday, September 21.
