A fashion designer, Chidi Sunday, tells TEMITOPE ADETUNJI how he was diagnosed with a lung infection that left him unable to breathe properly, forcing him to rely on oxygen to live
Can you narrate what led to your illness?
My name is Chidi Sunday. I’m a fashion designer, stylist wardrobe manager, and event curator. I am from River State, and I will be 28 years old by August this year. I am the only son, I have two younger siblings.
I was diagnosed with lung disease and have been on oxygen for about two months. The doctors said I have to be oxygen-dependent till my lungs can pick up.
Can you narrate what happened?
I did not expect this, because I was always healthy. However, about two months ago, I can’t remember the exact date, I woke up at 3:00 am and noticed I was struggling to breathe. I couldn’t breathe well and I was struggling to walk. I collapsed and was rushed to the hospital and that is how I was admitted here.
Which hospital are you currently in?
Infectious Disease Hospital, (IDH) Yaba, Lagos.
How long have you been a fashion designer?
Over four years.
Where are you based?
I am based in Lagos.
How do you feel about this situation?
To be honest, it’s been a real struggle. I feel very bad seeing myself in this critical condition. At first, I didn’t think it was that bad because the signs weren’t there. But as time went by, things got worse. It’s been tough having to rely on oxygen and medicine every single day. I have to buy oxygen every day just to stay alive, and it costs us a lot. It’s been a big worry for me and my family. We’re doing our best to stay positive and hopeful that I’ll start feeling better soon. It’s not easy, but we’re taking it one day at a time. Without the oxygen, I can’t breathe properly.
How have your family and friends supported you during this challenging period?
My family has been incredibly supportive during this difficult time. Also, my church has equally been a great source of help and comfort. My dad will be 61 years old this year. My dad is a business man, he has a company that’s into supply and contract and he doesn’t even have money to continue the business. My mum is also a petty trader, however there has not been enough funds to help her continue. He made a big sacrifice by leaving Rivers State to come and stay with me because no one else could be here to take care of me. Having him by my side has meant a lot.
It’s been tough dealing with this illness. Being on a sickbed for months and having to rely on oxygen to stay alive is very hard. Every day is a struggle, and the pain made me feel so bad seeing myself in this condition. But my family and friends have been amazing. They encourage me emotionally and keep my spirits up. They visit me, call me, and send messages to let me know they are thinking of me and praying for me.
Their emotional support has been crucial. It’s not easy to stay positive when you’re in pain every day, but knowing that I have people who care about me makes a big difference. Overall, the support from my family, friends, and church has been a lifeline. It reminds me that I’m not alone in this fight, and it gives me the strength to keep going, even on the toughest days.
How long has your dad been with you in the hospital?
It’s been two weeks.
What about your mum?
My dad decided to take it upon himself to come and stay with me. My mum is with my siblings. She needs to look after them and take care of the house.
My dad didn’t know it was extremely serious until he started seeing my pictures on the internet on how I currently look, so he came here.
How has the medical team at IDH been supporting you?
The nurses and the doctors are trying their best. This is something that concerns the lungs. They are trying to do all they can to make sure that I am okay.
What strategies are you employing to maintain resilience and optimism throughout your treatment journey?
Managing to stay strong and hopeful during this tough time has been challenging. I believe that God is with me and will help me heal. I just need the support of good Samaritans. The support would go a long way to help my treatment. Regular checks and calls from loved ones provide comfort and remind me of all the reasons I have to fight and get better. Lastly, I keep reminding myself that this situation is temporary. I believe that my lungs will heal, and I will be able to breathe on my own again, I just need support.
What kind of help do you need?
Right now, I need financial help to stay alive. I have to use oxygen every day to help me breathe until my lungs get better and can work on their own. We have to buy oxygen every day, and it costs N17,000 each time. On top of that, we have to buy medicine every day too, and together, we spend more than N30,000 daily. It’s a very difficult time for me because everything we need is so expensive. We are struggling to keep up with these costs, and any financial support would make a huge difference and help me stay alive.