Naomi Oyoe Ohene Oti: A Beacon of Hope in Cancer Care
My name is Naomi Oyoe Ohene Oti, and I am an oncology nurse specialist at the National Radiotherapy Oncology and Nuclear Medicine Centre at Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital in Accra, Ghana. With 24 years of experience in guiding patients through the challenges of cancer, I am committed to making a difference in the lives of those battling this disease.
It all began during my final year of nursing school when I met a young woman who had been diagnosed with breast cancer. Despite undergoing surgery and chemotherapy, the cancer had metastasized, leaving her with limited options. Witnessing her resilience and determination in the face of adversity inspired me to pursue a career in oncology nursing. I joined Ghana’s only cancer center 24 years ago, determined to make a difference in the lives of cancer patients.
Navigating the challenges of a healthcare system with limited resources and support was not easy. As one of the few trained oncology nurses in the country, I had to learn, teach, lobby, comfort, and fight for the rights of cancer patients. The emotional toll of supporting patients through their journey was immense, but I persevered, leading the first online oncology nursing training program in Ghana and advocating for improved cancer care services.
In Ghana, where spirituality plays a significant role in healthcare beliefs, I have worked to integrate patients’ beliefs into their treatment plans. By involving religious and traditional leaders in counseling sessions and promoting cultural sensitivity in healthcare practices, we aim to bridge the gap between traditional beliefs and modern medical care.
One of my greatest joys has been witnessing the impact of my mentorship on other nurses, who have gone on to establish oncology units in their communities and lead screening programs. Through their dedication and commitment, we are decentralizing cancer care and improving access to support for patients across the country.
In 2024, I was honored to receive the Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award, a recognition of the contributions of African nurses to world-class healthcare. This award is a testament to the resilience and dedication of oncology nurses working in resource-limited settings, proving that quality care can thrive even in challenging environments.
Looking ahead, I am focused on building a legacy beyond the hospital walls. With the support of the award money, I am working on developing Africa-wide competencies for cancer nurses, setting up leadership training programs, and creating scholarship funds for further education. My goal is to continue mentoring, educating, and advocating for improved cancer care services in Ghana and beyond.
To young nurses embarking on their careers, I offer this advice: see nursing as an act of social justice, a platform to amplify the voices of the vulnerable and marginalized. Seek knowledge, share your insights, and never underestimate the impact you can have on the lives of others.
As I continue to fight for better cancer care in Ghana and beyond, I am reminded that this journey is not just mine—it belongs to all those who have supported and inspired me along the way. Together, we are just getting started in our mission to improve cancer care and support patients in their battle against this disease.
