FROM RAHILA ABDULLAHI, KADUNA
In a bid to raise awareness and garner support for children living with cerebral palsy, Golden Hope for Cerebral Palsy Warriors Initiative recently paid a courtesy visit to the Chairman, House Committee on Information, NGOs and Development Partners, Marah Zachariah at the Kaduna State House of Assembly.
The initiative highlighted the immense challenges faced by families of children with cerebral palsy, particularly the financial strain and social stigma that often accompany this condition. During the visit, several mothers shared their personal stories, shedding light on the hardship they endure.
Fatima Mohammed, a mother of twins with cerebral palsy, recounted her experience. Eight years ago, when her children were just four years old, her husband divorced her, following pressure from family and friends. Since then, Fatima has been the sole caregiver for her children, relying on her modest income as a security guard at the Kaduna State High Court.
In response, Zachariah acknowledged the urgent need for government’s intervention. Although his committee does not oversee health matters.
He assured the group that he would bring the issue to the attention of the chairman of the House Committee on Health.
He pledged to mobilise media organisations, including Kaduna State Media Corporation, KSMC, Kaduna State Television, KSTV, Channels TV, and Arise TV. These outlets will be encouraged to document the experiences of children living with cerebral palsy at Barau Dikko General Hospital on their clinical day.
The resulting documentaries will be broadcasted to create widespread awareness and foster collaboration with other organisations addressing similar challenges.
Mr Zachariah invited Golden Hope for Cerebral Palsy Warriors Initiative to return on Monday, September 1 to finalise arrangements for the proposed documentary.
