In a heartfelt and emotional interview with media personality Chude Jideonwo, Nollywood actress Ufoma McDermott opened up about her 12-year struggle with kidney disease and the toll it has taken on her life and family. The actress expressed her deep concern for others, urging people to prioritize their health and be mindful of the consequences of self-medication.
During the interview, she shared the painful experience of losing her brother to kidney disease, which was diagnosed at an advanced stage. “My brother was diagnosed late, at stage four, and he had to go straight into dialysis. Unfortunately, he had severe complications,” she said, her voice filled with emotion. She explained that although her brother’s case was severe, her own condition had been diagnosed earlier, allowing her to manage it with medication for nearly 12 years.
The actress also reflected on the impact of drug abuse within her family, revealing that when her brother passed away, she sought answers from her cardiologist, fearing the condition might be genetic. “We traced the kidney disease and learned it wasn’t genetic – it was linked to drug abuse,” she said.
Growing up, she had struggled with chronic migraines, headaches, and eye strain but avoided wearing glasses, thinking they made her look “like a geek.” Instead, she self-medicated with strong painkillers, believing that relieving the pain was the most important thing.
“I had painkillers in my wallet, and I would even give them to people around me. I never realized I was abusing drugs,” she explained.
It was only after her brother’s death that she learned the extent of the damage caused by her long-term use of painkillers. The actress revealed that she had been diagnosed with high blood pressure at the age of 26, but at the time, she had no understanding of the severity of her condition.
“The doctor told me that the behaviors I had been exposed to – particularly my misuse of painkillers – were the root cause, not genetics. I had no idea I was abusing drugs until it was too late,” she said.
Reflecting on the lesson she has learned, the actress emphasized the importance of being vigilant about one’s health and not taking it for granted.
Ufoma urged others to seek proper medical advice and avoid self-medication, stressing the long-term consequences that can arise from seemingly small health choices.
Her candid admission serves as a powerful reminder of the hidden dangers of drug abuse, particularly the misuse of over-the-counter medications.
By sharing her story, she hopes to inspire others to take better care of their health and to break free from harmful habits that could have life-altering effects.
