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“My lupus flare came on so strong, leading to multiple surgeries” – Actress Kemi Afolabi reflects on her tough year as daughter turns 16 (Video)

Nollywood actress Kemi Afolabi is celebrating the 16th birthday of her daughter, Dara.

Taking to her Instagram page, she shared a video of herself and her daughter in the hospital, revealing that 2026 has been tough for them. According to her, her lupus flare came on so strong, leading to multiple surgeries, but her daughter was stronger.

Kemi Afolabi daughter is 16

She said her daughter grew on her and she has been by her side during the sad and happy moments. Kemi promised to celebrate her always.

Kemi Afolabi daughter is 16Kemi Afolabi daughter is 16

“Year 2026 has been tough 4us. Lupus flare came on so strong, leading to multiple surgeries, but Dara was stronger!
You grew on me, baby.
It’s been you during sad and happy moments.
You’re an amazing child.
I celebrate you not just today but every day”.

Kemi Afolabi daughter is 16Kemi Afolabi daughter is 16

A few weeks ago, Afolabi wrote a note to her daughter after surprising her with gifts. She described Dara as the strongest 15-year-old she knows, noting that she is always holding it down for her, no matter how many times she is well. Afolabi appreciated her for being amazing and brave.

A month ago, the Yoruba actress had poured out her heart to her supporters in an emotional note. She appreciated them for constantly checking and showing love and support to her, saying they give her the strength to keep fighting to live.

When the movie star, turned a new age in April, she asserted that she was proof that God exist. She said she was forever grateful.

Still basking in gratitude, Kemi shared a video of herself celebrating her birthday at home, declaring that she is a rare gem.

While addressing her haters, she noted how her haters can’t stand that they can’t humble, shame, or break her. She further noted how they can’t embarrass or make her feel less about herself.

In another post, she said she is powerful on her own and doesn’t need to team up to win a fight.

Recall that in 2023, Kemi Afolabi disclosed in an interview that she had been diagnosed with lupus and had just five more years to live.

Following her bombshell revelation, many of her colleagues solicited help for her to receive the best medical care abroad, which she did.

Speaking out about her mental health, she revealed that she had a mental breakdown over her illness, and recounted how she experienced anxiety, exhaustion, and depression. However, having great people around her helped her heal.