From TCNEWS
A Nongovernmental Organization known as The Straight Child Foundation, TSCF has officially opened its pediatric gym for Children with Cerebral palsy, CP in Umuahia, Abia State.
The TSCF Physiotherapy Gym hall unveiled in the ongoing annual August Bootcamp of the Foundation for CP children, is located in #47 Road M (Major Road) World Bank Housing Estate, Umuahia.
Interacting with newsmen, the Vision bearer of The Straight Child Foundation, Dr. Mrs Peace Amaraegbulam, said although it can be more challenging but children with cerebral palsy have a lot to benefit from regular physical activity.
According to her, the exercise does not only help to reduce the risks of chronic illnesses as numerous activities for all levels of cerebral palsy can help CP children stay active and healthy, but also reduce complications of cerebral palsy.
She said since children with Cerebral Palsy often have motor disorder, exercise is extremely beneficial to them, as it allows them to build muscle strength and flexibility while improving endurance.
She expressed optimism that with the availability of the gym, the CP children would have the opportunity to socialize with other children and build self-confidence over time.
Educating the parents of the CP children while drilling the patients, a physiotherapist, Dr. Uthman Anjorin, who was assisted by a Director of Physiotherapy and TSCF Team Leader, Dr. Uchenna Oluwatosin among other TSCF staff, described the CP pediatric gym as extremely beneficial as it will help the affected children to improve the strength and flexibility of the muscles.
Interacting with our correspondent respectively, Mrs Chiamaka Chidobem, Mrs Chinyere Ihefor among other parents/caregivers who gave their perspective on how they are managing their children’s cases, appreciated TSCF Vision bearer, Dr. Mrs Amaraegbulam, for providing hope and specialized care for cerebral palsy patients and lauded the Foundation’s mission to break the cycle of discrimination and despair for families affected by cerebral palsy in Abia State and Nigeria.
They also expressed happiness for gaining a new knowledge of how to handle their children.
It is estimated that about 45 CP children will participate in the pediatric gym.