Nobel laureate Professor Wole Soyinka opened up about his prostate cancer diagnosis in 2014. In a sit-down with the British Broadcasting Corporation, BBC, the award-winning author and rights activist told spoke about how he has dealt with prostate cancer over the past five years.
Soyinka said that he had just gone for a routine medical check-up when the doctor asked him to take more tests. It was then that Soyinka was diagnosed with early-stage prostate cancer.
That was five years ago. Since then, after undergoing successful treatment, the 85-year-old is in good health. The professor says he takes pretty good care of himself and loves spending time outdoors.
BBC Life Clinic’s Charles Mgbolu met him at his village in Ogun state in south-west Nigeria and heard his story of resilience and determination. Also, Soyinka spoke of the crucial role his wife played in the process.
Wole Soyinka talked about her reaction when she found out about his prostate cancer. His wife, Folake Doherty, was instrumental to his survival because as he says, he is “not a very good patient”.
Away from the polluted and overrated cities, Soyinka lives a healthy reclusive life in his village. There, he stays active by going on long walks or going hunting in the bushes.
He proceeded to talk about how Nigeria has failed to cater to its sick citizens. Soyinka said he found traveling for treatment unnecessary and unfair to those who could not afford it.
Watch a clip of the interview below:
Source: BBC
