Prioritizing Prenatal Care: Ensuring Safe Childbirth and Supporting Special Needs Children
In a bid to alleviate the difficulties associated with childbirth and support children with special needs, women have been urged to prioritize seeking medical attention during pregnancy. This call to action came from Professor Alfred Yawson, the Dean of the College of Health Sciences at the University of Ghana. Professor Yawson emphasized the detrimental effects of exposure to environmental toxins and heavy metals on child development, stressing the importance of early medical intervention to safeguard both maternal and child health.
Speaking at the launch of Wood and Wentz Samaritan Heart, a newly established non-governmental organization (NGO) in Accra, Professor Yawson underscored the critical role of prenatal care in preventing pregnancy-related complications. The NGO aims to provide a supportive environment for children with special needs and their families, offering counseling, domestic support, and access to medical care.
"The challenges faced by parents of children with special needs are multifaceted, ranging from financial burdens to emotional strain," Professor Yawson remarked. He urged parents to explore opportunities for their children to attend specialized schools that offer comprehensive support services, including occupational therapy.
The event, which served as the official launch of the foundation, aimed to raise awareness about the plight of children living with disabilities and the challenges encountered by their families. A 13-member board was inaugurated to oversee the operations of the organization, which was established in memory of Ricky Wood, a special needs child, by his parents Reuben and Efua Wood, and foster parent Tory Wentz.
Reuben Wood, the founder of the organization, explained that their personal journey in caring for their son Ricky inspired the establishment of the NGO. Despite the heartbreaking loss of their son in 2021, the family resolved to channel their grief into creating a legacy of love and support for other families facing similar challenges.
Tory Wentz, co-founder of the foundation, fondly remembered Ricky's resilience and zest for life, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to honor his memory through the organization's initiatives.
Echoing the sentiments of the founders, Ricky's mother, Efua Wood, shared her firsthand experiences of raising a child with special needs, emphasizing the need for continued guidance and assistance for families in similar situations. Christine Nanapanin Akosua Arhin, another parent of a special child, echoed these sentiments, shedding light on the struggles of accessing necessary therapies and treatments for children with medical issues.
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