My heart continues to break as I mourn the recent passing of a national hero and a family friend, Dr. Ameyo Stella Adadevoh. She passed away on August 19 from the Ebola virus after contracting it while treating Mr. Patrick Sawyer, an American who previously died from the disease in Nigeria.

I refuse to let Dr. Adadevoh’s death pass without national recognition of her heroic efforts, so I am asking that the Nigerian government honor her life with a National Posthumous Award.

Dr. Adadevoh was a beautiful and kind woman. She was recognized as one of the Lagos’ favorite and best doctors. When the Ebola news broke, everyone knew she would be the first one to fight for her community. She stood her ground to protect our country by treating Mr. Sawyer. Dr. Adadevoh refused to allow Mr. Sawyer to leave First Consultant Hospital even when the Liberian Ambassador pressured her to release him.

Imagine what would have happened if she had let him go. Ebola would have been more widespread in Nigeria than what we are dealing with now. While Ebola took her life, she undoubtedly saved many lives worldwide.

In Nigeria, awards have been given to me, sport stars and others for simply doing our jobs. Dr. Adadevoh did more than what her job required -- she sacrificed her life for our country with her handling of Mr. Sawyer. If we’re going to beat Ebola, we need more people to follow Dr. Adadevoh’s lead and step up as heroes. If we don't celebrate people like this who sacrifice their lives to save others, then please tell me why any of us should do the same.

In Nigeria, it’s easy for my people to move on after news breaks. I won’t let that happen with Dr. Adadevoh’s passing. Her sacrifices will not be made in vain. Please sign this petition so we can properly honor Dr. Adadevoh’s life.

'Give honor to whom honor is due'