Franklin Cudjoe reveals Parkinson’s diagnosis, pledges to raise awareness in Ghana
The Founding President and Chief Executive Officer of the IMANI Centre for Policy and Education, Mr Franklin Cudjoe, has publicly disclosed that he has been living with Parkinson’s disease for the past eight years, describing his diagnosis as part of a personal journey he is now ready to share to raise awareness.
In a Facebook post published at the start of the year, Mr Cudjoe said he had earlier mentioned living with a movement disorder and has now confirmed that it is Parkinson’s disease, a neurological condition that affects movement and requires long-term management.
“At the beginning of this year, I did mention that I was living with a movement disorder. Well, folks it is Parkinsons,” he wrote.
Mr Cudjoe said he has lived with the condition for eight years and credited neurologists in Ghana for their support, despite the limited number of specialists in the country.
“I had been living with it for the past eight years. My doctors in Ghana, neurologists in fact, have been very supportive,” he said.
He also revealed that he has received medical care abroad with the help of close acquaintances, noting the financial burden associated with managing the condition.
“Through the generous support of very close acquaintances, I have also been seeking medical care abroad,” he stated.
Mr Cudjoe explained that while Parkinson’s disease has no cure, it is not fatal and can be managed through medication and lifestyle adjustments.
“Parkinsons has no cure but it won’t kill you. It can only be managed with expensive medication and lifestyle adjustment, diet and physical exercises especially,” he said.
He expressed gratitude to members of the public who have shown concern since his earlier disclosure and said he remains determined to use his experience to support others living with the condition in Ghana.
“Many thanks to all who have shown concern. I am determined to raise awareness and continue to support the Parkinsons support group in Ghana,” he wrote.
Mr Cudjoe also issued a public health caution, urging people to be mindful of environmental and occupational risks and to seek early medical attention if they notice unusual physical changes.
“Once again please avoid prolonged exposure to chemicals and please go for clinical assessment once you notice changes in your physical movements,” he advised.
He added that Parkinson’s disease can sometimes be hereditary, although research suggests this accounts for a small proportion of cases.
“It may also be hereditary, although research shows that is less than 10%,” he said.
Mr Cudjoe ended his message by encouraging the public to prioritise their wellbeing, as his disclosure has sparked renewed conversation around neurological health and access to specialised care in Ghana.
About Parkinson's
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects movement and occurs when nerve cells in the brain responsible for producing dopamine are damaged or die. Common symptoms include tremors, stiffness, slowed movement and difficulty with balance and coordination, although symptoms vary from person to person. While there is no cure, the condition can be managed through medication, physical therapy and lifestyle changes, allowing many patients to maintain a good quality of life for years after diagnosis.
