EXCLUSIVE: HOW “I GAVE UP EBA, AMALA, AND AKPU TO BEAT BREAST CANCER” – AKEREDOLU’S WIDOW SHARES HER SURVIVAL JOURNEY

Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, widow of the late Ondo State Governor, Rotimi Akeredolu, has opened up about her 27-year battle with breast cancer, revealing how lifestyle changes, early detection, and medical intervention helped her overcome the disease.

In a heartfelt social media post to mark World Cancer Day, she reflected on her journey, emphasizing the importance of prompt medical attention and the power of dietary choices in cancer recovery. Diagnosed at the age of 44, she was determined to survive, especially for her young children.

EARLY DETECTION SAVED MY LIFE

Recounting her experience, she disclosed that her cancer was discovered at Stage 1, with no lymph node involvement—a critical factor in her survival. Rather than resorting to spiritual healers, she sought treatment at the University College Hospital (UCH) in Ibadan, where she received proper medical care.

“Some people waste valuable time seeking miracles when they should be getting medical help. I chose science, and it saved my life,” she stated.

DITCHING STARCHY FOODS AND SUGAR

A major part of her survival strategy was a drastic change in her diet. Understanding that sugar and starchy foods fuel cancer growth, she eliminated soft drinks, eba, pounded yam, amala, akpu, and bread from her meals.

“I had to make a decision—if avoiding certain foods would help me live longer, I was ready to do it. Since the year 2000, my diet has consisted of vegetables, smoothies, green tea, lemon and ginger tea, beans, moi moi, fish, chicken, snails, occasional rice, and zobo drink,” she revealed.

She also incorporated regular exercise, particularly jogging, into her lifestyle to maintain overall well-being.

A PASSION FOR CANCER AWARENESS

Her battle with cancer led her to become a strong advocate for breast cancer awareness in Nigeria. She founded the Breast Cancer Association of Nigeria (BRECAN) and Team Survivors Nigeria (TSN), a support group dedicated to helping women battling the disease.

Through these organizations, she has provided psychosocial support, early detection advocacy, and education, ensuring that breast cancer is no longer seen as a death sentence.

“CANCER IS NOT A DEATH SENTENCE”

Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu’s journey serves as a beacon of hope for women facing similar battles. Her message is clear—early detection, medical treatment, lifestyle changes, and a strong support system can significantly improve survival rates.

“If stopping Coke and other soft drinks, as well as swallowing eba, pounded yam, amala, and akpu, would prolong my life, so be it. That was exactly what I did,” she affirmed.

Her story is a powerful reminder that awareness, informed choices, and access to healthcare can make all the difference in the fight against breast cancer.