My name is Naomi Oyoe Ohene Oti, and I have the profound honor of serving as an oncology nurse specialist at the National Radiotherapy Oncology and Nuclear Medicine Centre within the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital in Accra, Ghana. It’s a role that requires resilience, empathy, and a fierce commitment to those who are navigating one of life’s most formidable challenges: cancer.
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For the past 24 years, I have dedicated myself to guiding patients through this often arduous journey. It’s a journey I take great pride in, and I must admit, it feels like I am just beginning to scratch the surface of what needs to be done.
How it All Began: The Girl Who Looked Like Me
My path to oncology nursing began in the classroom. I encountered a young woman who, like me, was full of spirit yet was facing a dire situation. Diagnosed with breast cancer, she had already undergone both surgery and chemotherapy, but the cruel nature of the disease saw it return, metastasizing without mercy.
Despite her circumstances, she displayed an incredible will to live. Her laughter echoed through the halls, striking a sharp contrast to the cruel reality of the tumor visibly festering on her arm. When I turned to the doctors and asked, “What next?” their response hung heavy in the air: “There’s nothing more we can do. Just pain relief.” That moment shattered my heart; she was a mirror reflecting my own youth and dreams.
Right then, a resolute fire ignited within me: I want to change this story for others. This was my call to action. I applied to work at Ghana’s only cancer center at the time and, in June of 1999, I got the job—a pivotal moment that started my journey into oncology care.
Wearing the Gown and Bearing the Burden
Stepping into the world of oncology nursing at just 22 presented significant challenges. The support systems for specialized cancer care were scarce, with only one trained oncology nurse in our facility. Imagine the weight of those odds—resources were limited, the emotional burden was heavy, and the stakes were immeasurable.
It was a period of growth and learning. We had to wear multiple hats, constantly alternating between educators and advocates, all while maintaining our composure as patients poured their frustrations and fears upon us. The labor of empathy—though often overlooked—was overwhelming. I found myself facing burnout more frequently than I would like to admit.
Yet, we persevered. I pioneered the first online oncology nursing training program in Ghana, a venture that allowed nurses to enhance their skills while remaining on the ground. After lobbying tirelessly, the Ghana College of Nurses and Midwives finally institutionalized this program. That victory was not just mine; it was a triumph for all cancer patients and the future of oncology nursing in Ghana.
Between Faith and Fear: Helping Patients Face Reality
Cancer is more than a physical ailment; it challenges deep-rooted beliefs and perceptions. In Ghana, where spirituality is woven into the fabric of everyday life, many patients attribute their illness to ancestral wrongs or divine punishment. It’s heart-wrenching to see patients arrive at the hospital only when their conditions have become critical, often after resorting to herbal remedies.
Our approach is not to dismiss these deeply-held beliefs. Instead, we strive to integrate them into care. We invite local pastors or traditional leaders into our discussions, creating a holistic environment that fosters trust. Our aim is clear: to help patients understand that cancer is not a curse—it’s a disease that requires medical attention.
Yes, there has been some public education about cancer and its implications, but it remains woefully insufficient. Addressing this gap requires a serious investment in preventive health initiatives—accessible community screenings, culturally sensitive outreach, and involvement from traditional leaders. These figures must play an essential role in reshaping attitudes towards cancer care.
The Mentorship Ripple Effect
One of my most cherished achievements is witnessing the far-reaching impact of mentorship. Many of the nurses I have trained have returned to their home districts to establish oncology units, thereby decentralizing care. This allows patients to receive support closer to home, which can make all the difference in their journey.
Some of these mentees are now leading community screening programs, while others have stepped into significant roles in policy-making and nursing education. Change in healthcare doesn’t always come from the top down; it transforms through a myriad of empowered individuals, each contributing to a larger narrative of healing and hope.
A Kenyan Nomination, A Global Honor
When I received the nomination for the 2024 Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award, I was both surprised and deeply honored. What made it even more extraordinary was that it came from a nurse in Kenya. Out of 100,000 nominations worldwide, I was humbled to be among the top 10—and then, astonishingly, I won.
Overwhelmed doesn’t quite encapsulate how I felt; it was a moment of sheer gratitude. I understood that this award wasn’t just a recognition of my work—it stood as a symbol for every oncology nurse who works tirelessly under challenging conditions, often with minimal resources. It was a testament to the excellence and resilience of African nurses.
What’s Next: Building a Legacy Beyond the Hospital
The recognition I have received has opened new avenues, and I walk through them with a steadfast sense of purpose. My initiatives include:
- Completing Africa-wide competencies for cancer nurses.
- Establishing a leadership training hub for oncology nurses in Ghana.
- Creating a scholarship fund to empower nurses in furthering their education.
- Developing a genetic counseling program to address hereditary cancers.
- Continuing my work in mentorship and advocacy.
This transcends career aspirations—it’s a calling that drives me forward.
My Advice to Young Nurses? Fight Like It’s Justice
To every young nurse out there: nursing is not merely a job; it’s an act of social justice. Every bandage you apply, every tear you wipe away, and every voice you elevate matters. Seek knowledge diligently, document your experiences, and let your insights reverberate within your community. Be the advocate for those who may not have one.
If someone had told 22-year-old Naomi that she would one day win a global nursing award and foster substantial changes in cancer care, I would have laughed, perhaps awkwardly. Yet here we are in a world where hope thrives.
As long as I draw breath, I am committed to this fight—against cancer and the systemic barriers that challenge survival. This is not just my story; it embodies Ghana’s journey, and indeed, Africa’s. And I assure you, we are just getting started.
Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International – Monitoring.
