By Deladem Nanevie
Ashaiman, Feb. 20, GNA — Madam Charlotte Owusu, Founder of Sickle Cell Condition Advocates (SICCA), has urged families and communities to accept children with sickle cell disease and stop stigmatising or branding them as witches.
She lamented that some African parents abandon children with the condition, referring to them as “water children.” She stressed that all children are gifts from God and those with sickle cell disease deserve special love, care and acceptance.
In an interview with the Ghana News Agency (GNA), Madam Owusu noted that parents are the first caregivers and, with proper management, children with sickle cell disease are less likely to experience frequent crises.
She emphasised the need to educate mothers on home-based care, including ensuring children drink plenty of water, eat balanced diets and get adequate rest. She expressed concern that some parents neglect proper dietary and hydration practices.
Madam Owusu called on hospital administrators to establish 24-hour sickle cell clinics and organise specialised workshops to equip doctors with the expertise to manage the condition effectively.
She encouraged individuals to know their sickle cell status before marriage and stressed the importance of awareness creation and counselling to provide emotional support for patients.
She further advised families to support children living with sickle cell disease and provide them with consistent care and love.
GNA
Edited by Laudia Anyorkor Nunoo/Audrey Dekalu