Nigerian social media influencer Blessing CEO
Blessing CEO Defends Breast Cancer Fundraiser Amid Backlash
Nigerian social media influencer Blessing CEO has addressed critics demanding refunds from her breast cancer fundraising campaign, insisting that donations were voluntary and defending her decision not to share her medical test results publicly.
Blessing first disclosed her breast cancer diagnosis in January and appealed to the public for financial support to cover her surgery and treatment. While many supporters contributed, some critics accused her of faking her illness to solicit funds, and a few have demanded refunds online.
In a viral video posted on Thursday, Blessing explained that the planned surgery has been delayed due to backlash. She said additional medical tests and post-surgery care have increased the overall cost, and that seeking financial support early was a precaution to avoid delays at a more critical stage of her condition.
READ ALSO:
The influencer emphasised that she cannot share her cancer test results online due to privacy regulations and patient confidentiality. She added that even if disclosed, most online critics would not be able to correctly interpret the medical information.
“If I show you the result, can you interpret it? Show me one cancer patient who came to the internet to show their results. Because I came out and said lovers help me,” she said, highlighting the voluntary nature of donations.
Blessing also stressed that many critics commenting on her fundraising lack knowledge about cancer and patient privacy, and reiterated that supporters who understand the situation have contributed willingly. “If you do not trust me, do not give me your money. If you do not want to give, keep your money. I do not put a gun to your head to give me your one naira,” she added.
Supporters have defended her approach, noting that medical crowdfunding is a common practice in Nigeria, where high treatment costs and limited insurance coverage make financial assistance necessary for many patients. Experts also emphasise that sharing medical results publicly is not recommended, and privacy and transparency must be balanced carefully when fundraising online.
The controversy has sparked a broader discussion on digital fundraising for medical treatment, patient privacy, and the responsibilities of influencers in sharing personal health journeys online. Blessing CEO maintains that her decision is aimed at protecting her privacy while ensuring she can access necessary care.
Blessing CEO Defends Breast Cancer Fundraiser Amid Backlash
Kidnapped Oyo Pupils, Teachers Regain Freedom After 55 Days – Eight Arrested, Several Neutralised The…
NRC Begins Major Operational Reset with Review of 150 Standard Procedures The Managing Director of…
Two Arrested for Smoking on Air Peace Flight from South Africa – Police The Lagos…
"I Just Learned I Filed for Divorce" – Nnamdi Kanu's Wife Breaks Silence Uchechi Okwu-Kanu,…
NIS Releases Step-by-Step Guide for Contactless Passport Renewal Abroad The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has released…
Kano Building Collapse: One Dead, Four Injured as Rescue Teams Respond A two-storey building under construction…