Asheazi Ruth A female Corps Member, Asheazi Ruth Patrick, on Thursday offered a free genotype test in Lafia Nasarawa State.
The initiative as part of her Community Development Service(CDS) according to her was to help address the dreaded sickle cell disease in Nigeria.
A total of 150 residents of the State benefited from the gesture.
The Corps Member who is a carrier stressed that she was motivated to offer free tests to help residents know their genotypes to take appropriate actions for healthy living.
Miss Asheazi who serves in the state Ministry of Special Duties for Humanitarian Services and NGOs expressed gratitude to the National Youth Service Corps, NYSC for permitting her to impact the lives of the people positively.
She also appreciated Maidunama Sickle Cell Foundation and her place of primary assignment for partnering with her to provide drugs and other health kits aimed at assisting sickle cell patients who were present during the event.
“I feel fulfilled today for actualizing this project. Sickle Cell disease is one of the genetic disorders in which the victims have no single fault and did not play any role in being born with it.
“Unfortunately, in this 21st century, many parents, adolescents, teenagers, and children within our communities have little or no knowledge of this disease.
“Sadly, the impact of this ignorance has led to so many couples getting married without considering their genotypes, and as such, increasing the number of sickle cell patients in the society,” she added.
She listed some challenges confronting sickle cell patients, lack of finance to purchase drugs, and inadequate attention by healthcare workers.
“We usually have restless nights, severe body pains, and all other health issues,” she said.
Asheazi appealed to the State government to prioritize the welfare of people living with the ailment in the state to give them a sense of belonging.
On his part, the State Officer of Maidunama Sickle Cell Foundation, Sarki Muhammad-Umar, pledged their commitment to continue to support individuals or associations to tackle sickle cell disease amongst the residents.
Earlier in her remarks, Margaret Elayo, Commissioner of Special Duties for Humanitarian Services and NGOs commended the Corps Member for her commitment to improving the lives of the people despite being a carrier of the sickle cell disease.
Category: World-News
Tag: Female Corps Member Offers Free Genotype Test To Host Community
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Published 3/29/2024 12:47:48 AM