Writing By Daniel Karlmax, Editing By Godwin Duru
The humanitarian charity organization under the auspices of the TirkPop Charity Foundation has appealed to well-meaning individuals, corporate organizations, and governments at all levels to come to the aid of people living with neurological disorders, particularly Cerebral Palsy (CP).
Speaking to Journalists in Kaduna, the Founder of the Foundation, Miss Amina Audu, who is also living with the condition, explained that cerebral palsy can result from complications during pregnancy, premature birth, lack of oxygen to the brain during labour, infections affecting the fetus, or brain injuries shortly after birth.
She disclosed that over thirty children living with cerebral palsy within Kaduna State and beyond are currently receiving weekly medical care through the Foundation.
According to Amina, cerebral palsy refers to a group of disorders that affect movement, muscle tone, posture, and coordination due to damage to the developing brain, usually occurring before birth, during delivery, or in early infancy.
She noted that although advances in medical care have reduced some risks, cerebral palsy continues to occur across all regions, genders, social classes, and backgrounds, emphasizing that the condition is not always preventable.
Amina Audu further explained that the condition affects not only the individual but also caregivers and entire families, adding that access to treatment is financially burdensome, especially for families from low-income backgrounds.
“Cerebral palsy is one of the most common childhood neurological conditions, yet it remains widely misunderstood. People living with this disorder are often stigmatized and discriminated against in homes, schools, workplaces, and society at large,” she said.
According to her, treatment currently provided by the Foundation includes physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy aimed at strengthening muscles, improving communication, and supporting daily activities.
She called on political office holders, corporate bodies, and individuals with compassionate hearts to support the Foundation with resources to meet the medical needs of affected children, including physiotherapy and other essential treatments.
Although there is no cure for cerebral palsy, Amina explained that doctors rely on careful observation, developmental assessments, and imaging studies to confirm diagnosis.
She stressed that early diagnosis is critical, as it allows families to access therapies and support services that significantly enhance a child’s development and independence.
“Medications and, in some cases, surgical procedures may also be used to reduce muscle stiffness or address associated medical conditions”, she said.
She added that in addition to movement difficulties, some individuals with cerebral palsy may experience challenges with speech, vision, hearing, or learning, while many have typical intellectual abilities.
Despite the challenges, Miss Amina noted that with inclusive education, accessible environments, and supportive communities, people living with cerebral palsy can participate fully in society as students, professionals, parents, and advocates.
She added that increased awareness and understanding would help build a society that values ability, dignity, and equal opportunity for all.
Daniel Karlmax
