The Ibidunni Ighodalo Foundation (IIF) has kicked off the second cycle of Project 40at40, an initiative to grant 40 couples re-productive interventions through In Vitro Fertilisation, IVF method. The project which birthed a year ago was the wish of IIF founder, Ibidunni Ighodalo before she transited on 14th June, 2019 that her 40th birthday wish on July 19 was to gift 40 couples with 40 IVF grants.
Ibidunni Ighodalo foundation was founded in 2016 to give couples-in-waiting the chance to become parents, through assisted reproduction, In-Vitro Fertilization (IVF) and other fertility treatments which resulted in many years of interventions for struggling parents.
This initiative took on a new life upon the founder’s demise; when her husband, Pastor Ituah Ighodalo decided that her wish must be granted. Currently, in its second year, this second cycle commencing on Ibidunni’s birthday anniversary – 19th of July 2021 is in fulfillment of this wish.
In collaboration with renowned fertility medical partners, IVF treatments have been administered to beneficiaries of the first cycle, resulting in a number of couples currently undergoing their gestation period.
Read also: Uncontrolled childbirth gave rise to societal vices in Nigeria- Experts
The Chairman of the foundation, Pastor Ituah Ighodalo, stated that the success of the first cycle was made possible by the generous donations and support of well-meaning people, corporations and partners.
Ighodalo also made a call for continued support and donations from all and sundry, to enable the foundation carry out this laudable project. Assisted reproduction, In-Vitro Fertilization (IVF) and other fertility treatments cost in the range of N6.5m, and not many couples have the funds to carry out these procedures, which can sometimes require two to three cycles to achieve success.
Adedayo Richards, Executive Secretary of the Foundation, added, ‘Even though not every treatment will result in conception, we are excited with the progress made so far from the first cycle and we are looking forward to working with more couples through their journey to becoming parents.’
She said the foundation got 2,000 applications last year from which 40 couples were selected after medical thorough screening. “The joy of those who were selected was unbelievable” as the financial burden of the IVF will be taken care of by the foundation. Each procedure costs about N3m.
Richards said the foundation is totally commitment to keeping hope alive, and helping struggling families ease their way into parenthood. Couples needing this intervention can visit the foundation’s website to apply. at www.ibidunniighodalofoundation.org.
Ighodalo further said that the grant is for those who cannot afford the cost. This will be determined by the combined income of the couple. The couple must have the resources to look after the in-coming child. The couple must be responsible citizens. The wife must be below 45 years of age against 50 years set for last year. This is for medical and psychological reasons.
After computer selection of those who are physically fit for the treatment, there may be ballot from the lot to choose the 40 couples for the grant.
