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Ivana Lorenzatti: Changing the story of cancer in Nigeria

Ivana Lorenzatti/LinkedIn

Feb 4, 2025, 11:31

Ivana Lorenzatti: Changing the story of cancer in Nigeria

Ivana Lorenzatti, Digital Communications Coordinator at City Cancer Challenge, shared a post on LinkedIn:

“Every city has its own heartbeat. Walking through the streets of Abuja this past Saturday with Project Pink Blue I felt that pulse – the energy of a community coming together, determined to change the story of cancer in Nigeria.

I met inspiring people like Eunice Ali, Hannatu Ayuba, Fatima Dambatta, Ummi Umar Musa, Adamu Muhammad, Zack Onwe, Elizabeth Ugwoma Awo-Ejeh, Gloria Chinyere Okwu, Mary-Gloria Orji, and in every conversation, I heard the same message: we are different, but we are in this together.

This year, World Cancer Day feels even more personal. My family too has been touched by cancer, and it has given me a deeper understanding of why this fight matters so much. But I also recognize that their experience will be very different from someone facing cancer in countries like Nigeria – or anywhere else in the world.

Having cancer in Italy is not the same as having cancer in Nigeria. The challenges are different. The financial burden is different. The options for care are different. But no matter where you are, the need for quality, accessible, and equitable cancer care is the same.

That’s why this year’s theme, ‘United by Unique,’ resonates so deeply with what we do at City Cancer Challenge. Each of our cities is unique, shaped by its people, its challenges, and its vision for the future. But they are all united by the same goal: to ensure every patient receives quality cancer care, no matter where they live.

For me, being united by unique means two things:

A more patient-centered approach – because each cancer journey is different, and care should reflect that.
Harnessing local strengths – because the path to better cancer care looks different in every city, but the commitment to change remains the same.

From the powerful steps we took in Abuja to the bold actions being taken in cities across the world, we are making progress – together.

Who or what inspired you this World Cancer Day? Share your story.”

Ivana Lorenzatti: Changing the story of cancer in Nigeria