Beloved Nollywood actress Ufuoma McDermott has opened the curtains on her painful struggle with kidney disease, an affliction she has battled for over a decade.
During an emotional conversation with media personality Chude Jideonwo, the 43-year-old actress recounted the harrowing experience of living with this chronic illness, bringing to light the challenges and fears she has faced along the way.
Ufuoma, known for her charismatic performances on screen, shared the grim details of her diagnosis, which occurred 12 years ago when she was informed that she had reached stage three of kidney disease.
As time went on, her condition worsened, ultimately escalating to a daunting stage four diagnosis.
This progression of her illness not only threatened her health but also cast a shadow over her role as a mother to her young children.
“People often misunderstand when I say I cannot afford to gain weight,” Ufuoma explained. “It’s not a matter of vanity; it’s about survival. I have little children who depend on me, and the thought of leaving them is unbearable. I had pushed my body to the brink, and it was dangerously nearing borderline stage four. Last year was particularly trying; it felt as if I was living on borrowed time, teetering on the edge of life and death.”
Reflecting on one pivotal moment during her struggle, Ufuoma recounted her interaction with her doctor as they discussed her treatment plan.
“I was negotiating with my doctor, who urged me to go home and rest. But at that moment, I was overwhelmed with anxiety. I thought to myself, ‘What if I go home and rest? I promise you I will sleep today, but what if I don’t wake up tomorrow?’”
In response to her concerns, her doctor strongly emphasized the need for her to prioritize her health. “Ufuoma, I need you to sleep now,” her doctor insisted. “If you can take your medications and just allow yourself to rest, we can lower your blood pressure. It’s critical for your recovery.”
Despite the seriousness of her condition, Ufuoma’s indomitable spirit propelled her to continue working.
After her doctor helped to manage her medications, she humorously reflected on her decision to return to the film set, exemplifying her dedication to her craft and her resilience in the face of adversity.
Throughout her journey, Ufuoma has made it a point to be open about her illness, advocating for greater awareness regarding kidney health.
By sharing her story, she hopes to inspire others facing similar battles and prompt more proactive conversations about the importance of regular health check-ups.
The actress, who has starred in a myriad of Nollywood films, has cultivated a supportive community among her fans, who have rallied behind her during this overwhelming time.
Carrying the heavy weight of her diagnosis, Ufuoma emphasizes the significance of mental strength and support systems in navigating illness.
“It’s not just a physical battle; it’s an emotional one as well,” she stated. “Having a network of support, be it family or friends, plays a pivotal role in keeping your spirit alive. There were many dark days, but the love from my children and the people around me pushed me to keep fighting.”
As she continues to manage her kidney disease, Ufuoma McDermott has made a commitment not only to her health but also to using her platform to spread awareness.
She advocates for more discourse on chronic health conditions, encouraging individuals to take their well-being seriously and to seek assistance when needed.
With her courage and determination, Ufuoma stands as a testament to resilience, showing that even amid life’s toughest battles, hope can shine through.
While facing the challenges posed by kidney disease, she remains focused on living each day fully, cherishing moments with her children and striving to inspire others along the way.
As her story unfolds, Ufuoma inspires countless others to prioritize their health and never give up, regardless of the challenges that life may present.
The actress’s journey is far from over, and she approaches the future with optimism and strength, emboldened by her experiences and ready to embrace whatever comes next.
