A Tribute To The Late DR. (MRS.) GRACE ENANG UKPONG

Our Iroko Has Fallen!
A Tribute To The Late DR. (MRS.) GRACE ENANG UKPONG

I received the call about your admission at the Navy Hospital Calabar on the 16th of September, 2021.  I made up my mind to be there till you recovered.  I did this with fear because, with SCD, any crisis could be your last.  I wanted to be with you till the end and I’m glad I was a part of your last journey when you eventually gained your wings on the 20th of September, 2021.

(MRS.) GRACE ENANG UKPONG was the first person in Cross River State that started a Network of Warriors called ‘Sickle Cell Club’. Her life and times as a medical doctor was dedicated to giving free treatment to sickle cell warriors that crossed her path. I’m glad I benefitted from your selfless service.

Being a member of your Sickle Cell Club, motivated me to form mine when I noticed you were becoming fragile.  I’m also glad I borrowed a leaf from your kind heart.

My first project was to celebrate ’50 and above living with SCD in CRS’; you benefitted from this project.  The smile and tears in your eyes, when I visited you with my team, is all I have left as memories.

I’m glad I gave back to you

I’m glad I put a smile on your face

I’m glad you prayed for me and

I’m glad I made you happy even if it was for a few years before you gained your wings.

You lived well as the oldest Sickle Cell Warrior in Cross River State.

You will be sorely missed as the only medical doctor that rendered free services to Sickle Cell Warriors in this State.

Go and rest.

God has called His angel home!

’Our Iroko’ is resting in Abraham’s bossom!

ADIEU Mama Enang Ukpong.

Deborah Ononokpono
Executive Director
Calabar Sickle Cell Foundation.