Nigerian actress Tope Osoba has revealed her harrowing experience with breast cancer, detailing how she discovered the illness, the struggles she faced, and the financial challenges of her treatment.
In an interview with BBC News Yoruba, Osoba recounted how she first noticed a lump in her breast during a self-examination. Initially, a doctor dismissed it as a natural condition related to her childbearing age. However, her persistence led to further tests, which ultimately confirmed she had breast cancer.
“The doctor had told me I would be placed on medication for five years and must not conceive during that period. I first discovered the issue while touching my body and felt something on my breast that hadn’t been there before,” she said.
Concerned, Osoba visited a private hospital, but the doctor assured her there was nothing to worry about. Still uneasy, she sought additional tests when she noticed the lump had grown larger. It was later confirmed as a cancerous tumor.
“The day I received the diagnosis was one of the worst days of my life. I couldn’t believe I had such an illness. I started worrying—would my breast be removed? Would I die despite all my struggles, having no mother or father to support me?” she recalled.
A CT scan later showed that the cancer had not spread significantly, and doctors assured her that her breast would not need to be removed. Fortunately, she did not require chemotherapy but had to undergo radiation therapy instead.
Despite her relief, the financial burden of treatment became another major challenge. Osoba turned to her colleagues for help, but many were unable to assist. It was actress Foluke Daramola who eventually reached out to the public on her behalf, encouraging donations.
“Some people responded, while others did not. Foluke later told me that many people didn’t know me, which was why the response was low. That was when I decided to make a video showing my face and sharing my story,” Osoba explained.
Her appeal led to overwhelming support, and by God’s grace, she is now cancer-free.
The actress expressed deep gratitude to everyone who supported her and encouraged women to prioritize self-examinations and regular check-ups, as early detection can save lives.
