A few years ago when 35-year-old Murtala Saheed commenced his spray-painting business, little did he know that he would one day suffer from any cardiovascular disease.

He is currently occupying a bed at the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital, Ilorin where doctors are battling to save his life.

As Saheed appeals to well-meaning Nigerians to help him financially and thus save him from excruciating pains that may lead to an agonising death, he is concerned that his lifelong ambition may be cut short if help does not come his way very soon.

Saheed, a native of Ilorin East Local Government Area of Kwara State, says he had spent about N800,000 on various medical treatments before doctors correctly diagnosed the cause of his health issue at the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital.

He laments, "I have been to several hospitals because of this ailment. I did many medical tests and underwent treatments, but unfortunately, the physicians did not discover exactly what my sickness was.

"I spent over N800,000, but there was no solution. Instead of getting better, my health problem only grew worse. A substantial part of the money came from my relatives and friends, as I had spent all my personal savings and even sold all my belongings in the course of trying to access treatments.

"It was only when I came to the UITH that physicians correctly diagnosed what was wrong with me.

They discovered that there is a hole in my heart. That means that I have heart problem. They told me that I should go and look for money so that I can be flown abroad for proper treatment.

"I need about N5m for the medial bills, flight tickets, accommodation, drugs, miscellaneous and other logistics."

He pleads with the federal, state and local governments, donor agencies — local and international, corporate organisations, religious bodies and individuals to assist him raise the funds.

"I beg them in the name of God to assist me. I know that if I survive, which I hope to, I will be of immense help to humanity and I will contribute my quota to the development of my country."

He gives his account details as follows: Mr. Saheed Alabi, GTBank, A/c No. 0035221169.

A letter from the UITH indicates that the patient complained of recurrent fainting sprees, dizziness and general weakness.

The letter, which was signed by the Consultant Cardiologist, Dr. Philips Kolo, states that a clinical examination of the patient reveals that he has congenital heart disease (a hole in the heart).

He adds that the diagnosis was confirmed by echocardiography to be Tetralogy of Fallot.

Kolo says Saheed needs an open heart surgery as definitive treatment for this condition, and the process will be carried out in India.

The letter reads in part, "The above is for your information and to request on his behalf any necessary assistance for him to have this procedure."