A place where community is a priority- Oyin
The power of community to create health is far greater than any physician, clinic or hospital-Mark Hyman
Tending to family can be stressful especially when juggling other aspects of your life.My father was ill for a very long time and he was getting worse. It seemed at every doctor’s visit a new health challenge arose. His only wish was to return home to Nigeria. Preparing him for the trip a laborious task due to his several health challenges, Most of his doctors did not want him to travel, but as his daughter I wanted to honor his wish. Led by spirit and accompanied by my dear uncle we made the journey home. Despite having a large blood clot in his leg, my father did well on the flight. It was the five hour drive to Ogbomosho that proved to be extremely challenging.
The car was not well ventilated and there was no AC. About two hours into the trip, my father was sweating (my dad has COPD, encephalopathy, hypertension, he’s had 6 strokes, and so much more) profusely. The drastic change in temperature was taking its toll on his already fragile state. Then the seizures started and I thought he was going to die. I have witnessed his seizures and each time they last longer. Despite all of this, my father held on. He needed to get home. To his people. His community. No words or tears could persuade him to do otherwise.
We arrived in Ogbomosho three hours later and I instantly understood why he was steadfast in his plea to continue on. I got out of car and I was in awe with what I saw. Family, friends and strangers were there to greet him. He didn’t need to stand and walk into the house. They carried him. Although he spent the majority of his life in America my father maintained his connection to his community. They welcomed him with love and open arms. A greeting that’s not always promised while living in the America.
I thought I was bringing my father home so he could peacefully pass away surrounded by his community and family. Months later he is still going strong. The joy in his voice and his charming smile during our video calls brings peaceful delight to my heart. His community surpasses any nursing home in the states.
While waiting for my flight to NY, so many questions came up in my mind. Are there different tiers to community living? Despite Nigeria’s serious health and political challenges, many villages still maintain a remarkable sense of community. Is it religion? What drives this unwavering support and love? ? Can it exist in America on this level? Oyinscafe was born in Lagos on February 25th at some evening hour. There needs to be a place ( with cafe vibes) that can foster genuine and authentic conversations about what makes a community great.
Some people think they are in a community, but they are only in proximity. True community requires commitment and openness. It is a willingness to extend yourself to encounter and know the other-David Spangler.
Safe, Fun & Healthy Conversations
Due to the pandemic, safety is a priority for everyone including myself. I do envision that in time we’ll have in person meet-ups to discuss how we can better serve our communities. This is an invitation to join me on my mission to do more and at the same time serve the communities that are faced with poverty, health inequities and disparities.