Mensah Omolola, widely known on social media as AuntieEsther, has become the center of public discussion after choosing to refuse a blood transfusion recommended for her cancer treatment. Her decision stems from her beliefs as a Jehovah’s Witness and has drawn strong reactions, particularly because over ₦30 million had been raised through public donations to support her medical care.
The fundraising was largely coordinated by charity advocate Wisdom Obi-Dickson, known on X as @Wizarab10, who confirmed that ₦30.7 million had been collected as of December 1, 2025. In a post on her social media account, AuntieEsther shared that her recent medical examinations showed that the cancer was localized to her breast and armpit.
She wrote, “Good morning, good afternoon, good evening. I want to update everyone that my results are in. My organs are fine. The doctor is ready to start chemotherapy, but I will be receiving injections and blood-boosting nutrition instead. I respect everyone’s opinions, but my family and I have chosen this approach. The doctor accepted our decision and will monitor me gradually as I begin chemo. I am receiving treatment to boost my blood count before starting chemotherapy.”
AuntieEsther also expressed appreciation for the financial support from Nigerians, writing, “I am grateful to everyone. Thank you #Wizard10 and #the_beardsina. I am improving. God bless.”
The matter became more complex when Obi-Dickson revealed that AuntieEsther’s church had warned that accepting a transfusion could lead to disciplinary measures, including disfellowship. Doctors had presented two options: a standard procedure involving a transfusion, which was within the existing budget, or a more expensive method that avoided transfusions entirely. AuntieEsther chose the latter in accordance with her religious beliefs.
Obi-Dickson stated, “We are grateful to everyone who contributed. She is responding to care, and her blood levels are being optimized for the next phase. Although this choice prolongs treatment and increases costs, it must be respected.”
He emphasized that all donations would be used exclusively for AuntieEsther’s medical expenses. “She declined the transfusion option before chemotherapy due to her faith. As a Jehovah’s Witness, she is pursuing an alternative treatment. This will take longer and cost more, but her religious convictions must be honored,” he added.
Despite these explanations, the decision has faced criticism online. Some argued that the funds should go to other patients in urgent need. For instance, social media user Toma To Shun suggested that AuntieEsther leave the hospital for full religious treatment and redirect the donations to others. Another user, Hud Adeyinka Katayeyanjue, commented that religious beliefs should not endanger life, stressing that choosing treatment is a form of stewardship.
Reality TV star Natacha Akide, known as Simply Tacha, also expressed her frustration, writing, “If someone wants to die, I don’t understand the back-and-forth. Let the person be. This isn’t religion anymore—it’s pure madness.”
Obi-Dickson has continued to provide transparency regarding the donations, confirming that a portion of the funds was used for AuntieEsther’s preferred meals, such as a ₦74,000 soup order, leaving a balance of ₦30,776,252 as of December 1, 2025.
The situation has ignited broader discussions on how faith intersects with medical treatment and public fundraising, prompting Nigerians to consider the ethical balance between religious convictions and life-saving medical interventions, particularly when public contributions are involved.
