.png)
By Madu Obi
Intending couples have been warned against lying about their genotype status before marriage to avoid producing children with sickle cell anaemia.
The Director of Sickle Cell Orphanage Home, Agulu, Anambra State, Aisha Edwards Maduagwu handed down the warning while interacting with members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in the state.
Edwards, who disclosed that no fewer than 42 persons died of sickle cell disease in Anambra State recently, re-emphasized that there is no cure for sickle cell anemia, adding that treatment could only relieve pain and help prevent complications associated with the disease.
According to her, sincerity between spouses ahead of marriage would go a long way towards reducing the number of sickle cell patients in the country.
She also observed that there is nothing spiritual about sickle cell issues, adding that God’s miracle is only manifested in the wisdom he gave man to dictate that SS carriers are not matchable as far as marriage is concerned.
She said: “I left the Nigerian Army to take up this advocacy because as someone living with sickle cell disease, I feel that one way of reciprocating God’s love for me is to give back to society and God has given me the opportunity to live and raise children up to the university level.
"The miracle of God here is the intelligence he gave to man that SS can’t marry SS. These children are rejected by their own family members because they feel frustrated and can no longer manage their health conditions.
“The worst thing that can happen to one on earth is being rejected by one’s parents. That’s the situation of the children I manage here. It is very sympathetic and heartbreaking.
“This is the first sickle cell orphanage in Nigeria. Ever since we set up this home, we’ve lost only a child, an orphan, and the only surviving child in the family, a kidney problem. I’ve buried a total of 42 persons since I started this advocacy.”
She appreciated the NUJ members for visiting the orphanage and called on good spirited individuals to support the home to better the lives of the children.
Chairman of the state council of the NUJ, Dr. Emeka Odogwu commended the commitment of the management of the home in taking care of the children, praying that their efforts would not be in vain.
Odogwu, who was represented by Chigozie Chukwuleta, distributed gifts items to support the orphanage.
Komentarze