Nigerian music producer, Michael Collins Ajereh, widely recognized as Don Jazzy, has extended his support to Anthonia, a Nigerian female footballer, by contributing ₦6 million towards her knee injury surgery.
Anthonia, the female footballer, used her social media platform to share her ordeal through pictures and text, explaining her situation. Alongside her story, she appealed for the assistance of compassionate Nigerians to help her gather the ₦5-6 million required for her knee surgery.
She posted the following message on her social media page:
“On November 23rd, 2022, during a friendly game with the FCT coaches in Area 3 pitch, Abuja, I was a Naija Ratels player.”
“Twenty minutes into the game, I went in for a tackle and twisted my left knee. I was taken off the pitch on a stretcher, and immediately, my knee became swollen.”
“I was advised to rest it for a while, as everyone thought it was a normal knee knock that needed rest.”
“A few days later, I started feeling severe pain in my knee. I did an X-ray, but no issue was seen. The doctor administered some medication, and I believed I’d recover as long as I rested my leg.”
“I went home for Christmas and returned in January, only to find out that the club had demoted me to the junior team in Makurdi and reduced my salary, without providing any basic medical care for my knee injury.”
“I sent numerous messages to the club’s Chairman @FcRatels, but I received no response.”
“In August 2023, I left Makurdi and had another X-ray at Nisa Premier Hospital, Abuja. The orthopedic doctor recommended an MRI scan.”
“I had the scan at Abuad Hospital in Ado Ekiti, and the result revealed that I had torn my ACL (Anterior cruciate ligament) and needed immediate surgery to be able to play football again.”
“I’ve been in pain for the past year, to the point where I started using crutches, taking pain-relieving medication daily, and wearing a knee brace constantly. I can’t engage in training or walk long distances due to the injury.”
“I know injuries are inevitable in sports, and I’m saddened and scared but determined to get through this.”
“I’ve struggled with asking for help and sharing this story, but the truth is, I’m not financially or mentally capable of handling this alone without your help.”
“The estimated cost of the treatment and surgery is approximately ₦5-6 million. I would greatly appreciate any assistance and donations, regardless of the amount.”
After a few days, Don Jazzy stepped in to offer assistance and provided Anthonia with ₦6 million for her surgery. He shared a receipt confirming the transaction and included a message wishing her a swift recovery. The note read, “Get well soon.”