The Access Heart Foundation recently organized Paint and Heal Lagos 2026, an event that united stroke survivors and children living with congenital heart defects. Held at the British Deputy High Commission in Ikoyi, Lagos, on September 17, 2026, the gathering provided a platform for participants to express themselves, connect with others, and experience moments of joy. The event was designed to foster expression, connection, confidence, and wellbeing among the participants.
For stroke survivors, recovery can be a long and challenging journey, extending far beyond the initial medical emergency. Regaining movement, confidence, and independence requires time, effort, and support. Paint and Heal incorporated creative activities aimed at encouraging participation, self-expression, and a renewed sense of agency among the participants. The event provided a unique opportunity for stroke survivors to regain fine motor movement through painting.
The experience was equally significant for the children living with congenital heart defects, who often face frequent hospital visits, medical procedures, and conversations centered on their diagnosis from an early age. Paint and Heal created a pressure-free environment where the children could create, interact, and enjoy themselves alongside their families and other participants. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, congenital heart defects affect approximately one in every 100 births worldwide.
The event was co-hosted by the British Deputy High Commission, reflecting growing interest in community-led approaches to health, wellbeing, and social inclusion. The Sarkin Fulani of Lagos was represented at the event by Farouk Gajo of the Sarkin Fulani Lagos Foundation, which partnered with Access Heart Foundation to support the initiative. The partnership highlighted the importance of community and traditional leadership in advancing health and dignity for families.
A key highlight of the event was the connection between the parents of the congenital heart defect warriors, who bonded through their artworks. The initiative drew attention to two health realities that remain insufficiently discussed in Nigeria: the often-invisible journey of stroke recovery and the prevalence of congenital heart defects. The establishment of a national paediatric cardiology registry in Nigeria has documented children living with CHDs across the country.
Lola Alli, Founder of Access Heart Foundation, emphasized that Paint and Heal is about giving people back a sense of joy and agency. Ayotunde Omotogun, Access Heart Foundation ambassador and a congenital heart defect patient, shared the significance of the experience, highlighting the importance of being seen beyond one's diagnosis. Simon Field, British Deputy High Commissioner, expressed pleasure in supporting Access Heart Foundation's work in bringing creativity and community together around health and wellbeing.
Paint and Heal Lagos 2026 forms part of Access Heart Foundation's broader commitment to supporting individuals and families affected by cardiovascular conditions. The Foundation plans to build on the initiative through future Paint and Heal experiences in other states, alongside partners such as Lagos Executive Cardiovascular Centre and MBO Capital. The event demonstrated the power of art and community in promoting wellbeing and connection among individuals with diverse health experiences.
Key points
- The event brought together stroke survivors and children with congenital heart defects for a creative wellbeing experience.
- The initiative drew attention to the often-invisible journey of stroke recovery and the prevalence of congenital heart defects in Nigeria.
- The event provided a platform for participants to express themselves, connect with others, and experience moments of joy.
