‘Breast Cancer Is Not A Death Sentence!’ Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu Reveals Powerful Survival Story At Nekede Women’s Conference
By Our Reporter
A breast cancer survivor of over 29 years, Dr. Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, popularly addressed as Ada Owere has renewed her call for greater breast cancer awareness, early detection and healthier lifestyles, sharing her inspiring survival story at a one-day women’s conference organised by the Women of Holy Trinity Anglican Church (H.T.C.), Nekede, Owerri.
The conference, held on Saturday, October 24, 2026, featured Anyanwu-Akeredolu as a guest speaker on the topic, “Facing Cancer with Strength: Understanding Prevention, Early Detection and Hope,” under the theme, “The Source of Our Strength.”
The event provided an opportunity for the renowned breast cancer advocate to share her personal experience, educate women on breast health and encourage them to take proactive steps towards protecting their well-being.
Reflecting on her journey, Anyanwu-Akeredolu explained how surviving breast cancer inspired her to establish the Breast Cancer Association of Nigeria (BRECAN) in 1997, at a time when conversations about the disease were limited in Nigeria.
According to her, the decision was driven by the need to break the silence surrounding breast cancer, promote awareness, encourage early detection and provide support for women affected by the disease.
She noted that her experience over the years had reinforced her conviction that a breast cancer diagnosis should not automatically be regarded as a death sentence, stressing that awareness, timely medical attention, accurate information and support can significantly improve outcomes.
THE LIFESTYLE CHANGES SHE URGED WOMEN TO EMBRACE
Beyond breast cancer awareness, Anyanwu-Akeredolu encouraged the women to pay closer attention to their eating habits and embrace healthier food choices for themselves and their families.
She emphasised the importance of incorporating more fruits and vegetables into daily meals, while also recommending beans and bean-based foods such as moi-moi to promote dietary variety and balance meals often dominated by carbohydrates.
She explained that fruits and vegetables provide essential vitamins, minerals and other beneficial compounds that support overall health.
The breast cancer advocate also advised the women to reduce their consumption of refined sugar and limit foods and beverages containing added sugar, encouraging them to favour whole fruits and minimally processed foods.
While acknowledging that no single dietary change can prevent or cure cancer, she stressed that balanced nutrition and a healthy lifestyle remain important components of overall well-being.
She further encouraged regular physical activity, suggesting that the women organise monthly group exercise sessions to improve their health while strengthening friendship, unity and solidarity within the church community.
THE PRACTICAL DEMONSTRATION THAT GOT THE WOMEN INVOLVED
One of the most engaging moments of the conference was Anyanwu-Akeredolu’s practical demonstration of breast self-examination.
She guided the participants through the process, encouraging them to become familiar with the normal appearance and feel of their breasts so they could recognise unusual changes and seek prompt medical assessment.
The demonstration, which attracted active participation from the women, turned the session into an interactive learning experience.
She, however, emphasised that breast self-examination does not replace recommended screening or professional medical evaluation.
Urging the participants to spread the knowledge beyond the conference, she encouraged them to educate their daughters, sisters, friends, neighbours and other women in their communities.
She maintained that greater awareness and access to reliable information could help women make informed decisions about their breast health and seek medical attention when necessary.
HER E-BOOK: ANOTHER WEAPON IN THE FIGHT AGAINST BREAST CANCER
During the engagement, Anyanwu-Akeredolu also highlighted her breast cancer e-book, which she described as a practical resource for survivors, caregivers, families and individuals seeking reliable information about the disease.
She explained that the publication was designed to make breast cancer information more accessible, empower readers to make informed decisions and provide guidance for those navigating the challenges associated with the disease.
She urged members of the public to obtain the e-book, read it and share it with others, noting that access to the right information could make a meaningful difference in someone’s life.
The e-book is available through this link: https://selar.com/14743n378p.
A SPECIAL HONOUR THAT MADE THE DAY MEMORABLE
The conference also featured a special moment of recognition for the breast cancer advocate.
In appreciation of her presence and contributions, the Women of Holy Trinity Anglican Church, Nekede, decorated her with a sash bearing the title, “Unique Mother of H.T.C. Nekede.”
She was also presented with a beautiful piece of ankara fabric.
Expressing gratitude for the recognition, Anyanwu-Akeredolu appreciated the organisers for the invitation, warm reception and opportunity to engage with the women on an issue she has championed for decades.
She described the gathering as an enriching experience marked by learning, laughter, interaction and meaningful connections.
HER FINAL MESSAGE: AWARENESS SAVES LIVES
The breast cancer advocate called for sustained conversations about breast health in homes, churches, workplaces and communities, insisting that awareness should extend beyond special events and commemorative campaigns.
She urged women to embrace healthier eating habits, remain physically active, understand their bodies and seek professional medical attention whenever they notice unusual breast changes.
She also called for greater compassion towards women living with cancer, warning against attitudes that stigmatise or isolate those affected by the disease.
For Anyanwu-Akeredolu, the mission remains clear: to ensure that more women have access to reliable information, timely medical attention and the support they need to navigate breast cancer.
Her message at the Nekede conference was a reminder that knowledge, early action and community support are essential in the fight against the disease.
As she continues her advocacy through BRECAN and other awareness initiatives, one message remains at the heart of her work: Breast cancer awareness is not just a conversation; it is a responsibility that can help save lives.
Awareness Saves Lives!
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