Veteran Ghanaian actor Fred Amugi has shared the heartbreaking story of losing his only daughter to cancer just nine days before her 21st birthday.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with gospel musician Piesie Esther on the Father’s Day edition of Floral Voices of Strength, the celebrated actor reflected on one of the most painful moments of his life while discussing fatherhood and the sacrifices he made for his children.
When asked about his children and the toughest sacrifice he had ever made as a father, uncle Fred revealed that he has three children, two sons and a daughter. Sadly, he and his wife lost their daughter after a battle with cancer.
According to him, his daughter was in the prime of her life and had already begun working as a nurse at Korle Bu Teaching Hospital before her untimely passing. Recalling the difficult period following her diagnosis, the thespian disclosed that he was then serving as Director of Supply at the Ministry of Finance.
He said he frequently had to seek permission from work to accompany his daughter to the hospital because her condition required constant medical attention.
“There were times we would spend days at the hospital, return home, and then have to rush back because her condition had worsened again,” he recounted.
The award-winning actor noted that his supervisors were very understanding due to his dedication and years of hard work. He recalled approaching the minister at the time to explain his situation and request permission to be absent from work whenever necessary to care for his daughter.
According to him, he even suggested that the days he missed work should be deducted from his salary, but the minister declined. He explained that much of the responsibility fell on him because his wife’s employer was unwilling to grant her the flexibility needed to care for their daughter. As a result, he often spent long hours at the hospital and sometimes slept there to remain by her side throughout her treatment.
The screen icon further revealed that one of the most devastating moments came while he was attending classes at the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA). He received a call asking him to report to the 37 Military Hospital after his daughter had been transferred there.
Read Also: Veteran Actor Fred Amugi Is 77 Today
Upon arriving, he was met with the painful reality that his daughter had passed away. Despite the immense grief, Amugi said he did not question God or break down in tears. According to him, although he loved his daughter dearly, he believed God loved her even more and had decided it was time for her to rest.
Reflecting on his journey as a father, the actor described himself as a very present parent who took full responsibility for providing for his family.
He disclosed that paying school fees, providing food, and taking care of his children’s daily needs largely rested on his shoulders. After marrying at the age of 33, he dedicated most of his time and energy to raising his children, often sacrificing personal time to ensure their well-being.
