Actor Richard Don Battles Kidney Failure, Cries for Help in Emotional Interview with Biola Bayo
In a heart-wrenching interview with actress Biola Bayo, veteran actor Richard Don opened up about his ongoing struggle with a life-threatening kidney condition that has left him emotionally and financially drained.
Richard Don, a respected figure in the movie industry, revealed that he has been battling kidney failure for some time and has reached a point where he can no longer carry the burden alone. Speaking with visible pain and vulnerability, he admitted that he has exhausted all his resources trying to stay alive.
He shared that his health crisis has forced him to sell everything he owns – his house, his car – leaving nothing behind. With his strength fading, he has even asked his wife to take full responsibility for their children, saying it appears he may not be able to continue fighting.
“There was no cheating about it, it was spent on me,” he said, referring to how the suffering is now clearly shown on his appearance. “Everything has finished already.”
Richard explained the reason behind his stage name. Originally named Richard, he adopted the name “Don Richard” in a bid to fit into the Nollywood industry more easily. He believed that not having an Eastern-sounding name could limit opportunities in the Nollywood world, and so he made the change for professional survival, he defined the source of DON as he interpreted each letter starting from D – Dadene ,O – Oluwakayode, N – Niyiola.
In the emotional conversation, Richard disclosed that his doctor told him he needed ₦30 million for urgent medical treatment.
“The doctor asked me to find 30 million Naira and I said I can’t find it,” he recalled.
“But my wife said, You are the one covering me all this while. You are like a protector to me. If anything happens to you, I am doomed. That means the world will see my weakness. You mean a lot to me, I may not tell people, but you are a good husband.”
Biola Bayo, visibly touched by his situation, called on the public and her fans to come forward with any support they could offer to save the actor’s life.
Meanwhile, Richard added that he had to ask friends to help him find a temporary place to live, as his condition has left him without shelter.
His story is a powerful reminder of how life can take a difficult turn, even for those who were once successful. Richard Don’s message is clear – he needs help, and time is running out.
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