Pumpkins Foundation calls for greater support on World Cerebral Palsy Day

On World Cerebral Palsy Day, October 6, 2024, the Pumpkins Foundation, a child-focused Non-Governmental Organization (NGO), has made a renewed call for increased support for individuals living with cerebral palsy (CP) in Ghana. 

The Foundation is urging the government, stakeholders, and the general public to take concrete steps to raise awareness, promote inclusion, and ensure that individuals with CP lead full, dignified lives.

Cerebral palsy, a neurological condition affecting movement and coordination, is one of the most common motor disabilities in children. In Ghana, an estimated 1 in every 300 births is affected, with approximately 22,000 people living with the condition, according to Professor Eben Badoe of Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital. 

Despite its prevalence, public understanding of cerebral palsy remains limited, and resources for affected families are often insufficient.

The Founder and Executive Director of the Pumpkins Foundation, Baisiwa Dowouona-Hammond, stressed the importance of addressing these challenges. 

“No child should be left behind,” she said. “We must work together to build a society that respects and accommodates the needs of every child, including those with cerebral palsy.”

Key advocacy points

On this year’s World Cerebral Palsy Day, the Pumpkins Foundation is calling for:

1. Inclusion in National Policies: The foundation is urging the government is urged to actively include individuals with cerebral palsy in healthcare, education, and national development policies, ensuring they have equal opportunities and support.

2. Subsidization of Medical Costs: The Foundation advocates for the government to subsidize the high costs of medical treatments and therapies for children living with CP. Affordable healthcare would significantly ease the financial burden on families.

3. Reduced Physiotherapy Costs: The Foundation appeals to health facilities to lower the cost of physiotherapy services for children with cerebral palsy by at least 50%, making critical therapies more accessible.

4. Increased Public Awareness: The need for community education is critical to foster understanding, reduce stigma, and encourage early diagnosis and intervention for cerebral palsy.

5. Support for Families: Private sector organizations and stakeholders are called upon to provide financial assistance, counseling, and relief care services for families, improving their quality of life.

6. Safe Environments: The Foundation urges donors, governments, and the public to help create safe and supportive environments for children with CP, their families, and caregivers.

7. Caregiver Training: Intensive training for caregivers is essential to ensure they can provide high-quality care for children with cerebral palsy. The Foundation continues to advocate for such training programs.

Commitment to change

Through its healthcare and empowerment programmes, the Pumpkins Foundation has been at the forefront of improving educational outcomes and health services for children with special needs. The Foundation also provides direct assistance, such as medication support for families affected by cerebral palsy.

As Ghana joins the rest of the world in marking World Cerebral Palsy Day, the Pumpkins Foundation is renewing its commitment to advocacy and partnerships aimed at building a more inclusive society. 

“We must all play a part in creating a supportive environment for children with cerebral palsy,” Dowouona-Hammond emphasized, calling on all Ghanaians to join the effort.