Chronicle Editor
Mkhululi Ncube, Chronicle Reporter
COMMUNITIES have been challenged to help fight stigma associated with children living with disabilities.
This was said by the Hydrocephalus Foundation founder, Pastor Lynn Ndlovu during the belated International Hydrocephalus and Spina Bifida commemorations which were held at Mpilo Central Hospital in Bulawayo yesterday.
October is Spina Bifida Awareness Month while October 25 was designated World Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus Day by the International Federation for Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus.
The commemorations are meant to raise awareness on the two conditions.
Spina bifida is a condition that affects the spine and usually affects the individual at birth.
Hydrocephalus is characterised by head enlargement in infants caused by the build-up of fluid in the cavities deep within the brain.
The extra fluid puts pressure on the brain and can cause brain damage.
“We must talk openly about these two conditions because most parents with such children shy away from the community. Some believe that it is witchcraft and do many things which do not improve the condition. We should educate society on this so that parents seek help at hospitals.
“There is nothing wrong with a child with a disability. We must ensure accessibility and inclusion of children living with the condition. We want to fight this stigma which is affecting our community. Some people hide children with the condition. Let’s seek help for them because they are our future leaders.
They must be included in everything we do in the community. We also seek equal opportunities for people living with the condition,” said pastor Ndlovu.
A woman whose 10-year-old child is living with hydrocephalus Mrs Auxillia Tafira said it is difficult for her to understand the condition and often she breaks down with emotions.
“After I discovered that she has the condition I cried asking God why he gave me the child. When I lost my husband it made the situation worse.
“Mothers of Special heroes -MOSH has now empowered me and I am now able to support my child as she needs drugs which cost around US$100 per month. I am working hard to support and provide for all her needs,” she said.
Another parent Mr Themba Sibanda said they moved from one place to another trying to reverse the condition to no avail as he believed that his child had been bewitched.
“I used to believe in witchcraft until I met pastor Lynn who explained the condition to me. It was not easy at the beginning as we fought a lot as a family,” said Mr Sibanda
Speaking at the same event, Industry and Commerce Deputy Minister, Raj Modi who was the guest of honour said Government welcomes working with partners to improve the country`s health sector.
He said Government has done a lot to improve access to health as seen by the building of clinics, district, provincial and central hospitals around the country.
“Government is committed to continue improving access to quality health services and therefore welcomes private players that complement its efforts,” said Deputy Minister Modi.–@themkhust
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