Bunmi's Story
After her father passed away, Bunmi had to request his death certificate in order to learn the cause of death: liver cancer. She felt stifled by the lack of willingness within her family to talk about hepatitis B, and she wonders if old superstitions about illness in Nigeria are contributing to the stigma surrounding the virus both there and in African immigrant communities in the U.S. She is determined to help end the silence.
Discussion Questions and Answers:
Why did Bunmi have to request her father’s death certificate to learn how he died? (Her family was reluctant to talk openly about hepatitis B, due to stigma and a desire to “save face.” Her father’s doctor in Nigeria was also reluctant to discuss the topic.)
What reasons does Bunmi suggest for why some Nigerians living in Nigeria may resist knowing their hepatitis B status? (They may have friends or family members who tested positive and who are living full, healthy lives. They may not be able to afford follow-up care, should they learn they are positive.)
How can the value of tradition be preserved, at the same time that traditional beliefs rooted in misinformation are challenged? (Community members can be encouraged to identify the positive elements of tradition and can educate themselves and their peers about when ideas about “tradition” are damaging to people’s health.)
What does Bunmi think needs to happen, regarding the issue of hepatitis B, within communities of African descent in the U.S.? (She believes that efforts must be made to reach out to Nigerian and other African immigrants, to let them know that resources for testing, vaccination, and treatment are available, regardless of people’s ability to pay.)