Breaking Barriers, Saving Lives: Dr. Hygin Steve Fonkou’s Triumph with the Judith Chapman Award 2024
Dr. Hygin Steve Fonkou, a trailblazing Transfusion Medicine specialist with the Cameroon Baptist Convention Health Services, made waves on June 24 in Spain when he emerged winner of the prestigious Judith Chapman Award 2024 from the International Society of Blood Transfusion (ISBT)
The distinguished medic from Baptist Hospital Mutengene proudly handed his recognition today, July 7, 2024 to the Director of CBC Health Services (DHS), Mr. Ngum Samuel. The excitement in the air was palpable as this esteemed award, launched in honour of the society’s very first Executive Director, Judith Chapman, recognized Dr. Fonkou’s exceptional leadership and adaptability in revolutionizing blood transfusion practices.
In a moment of sheer pride and gratitude, Dr. Fonkou recounted the exhilarating experience of receiving the award in front of a global audience in Barcelona, Spain on June 24, 2024 at the opening ceremony of the 38th International Scientific Congress of ISBT. With over 3000 attendees from 115 countries, the magnitude of this achievement was not lost on him. “This award is a testament to the unwavering support and opportunities provided by the CBC Health Services, allowing us to elevate the quality of our transfusion services with limited resources, all by the grace of God,” Dr. Fonkou beamed with pride.
Since joining the CBC Health Services in 2022, Dr. Fonkou has spearheaded numerous initiatives to enhance transfusion services within the organization. From training laboratory technicians in multiple hospitals to fostering voluntary blood donation rates and refining documentation and policies, his impact has been nothing short of transformative. Notably, he orchestrated the groundbreaking national training on blood transfusion in April 2024 at the CBC Health Services Mvan Resource Centre, Yaounde, marking a significant milestone in his career.
For Dr. Fonkou, this award serves as a powerful reminder that remarkable feats can be achieved within local contexts despite constraints. As the sole recipient of this esteemed accolade globally, he views it as a testament to the boundless potential of dedicated individuals working with limited resources.
The future undoubtedly holds great promise for Dr. Hygin Steve Fonkou as he continues to push the boundaries of excellence in transfusion medicine, leaving an indelible mark on the healthcare landscape. He received congratulations and encouragement from the DHS to do more exploits.
