By Chinedu Aroh, Special Correspondent,
In the quiet community of Amalogbo Akpoga-Ezimo, Udenu Local Government Area, Enugu State, a poignant story of resilience and hope unfolds. Mrs. Rachael Odoh, a 51-year-old mother of four, has been confined to her bed for the past eighteen months, her life upended by a tragic accident that left her with a debilitating spinal cord injury.
The Fateful Day
Residing in Onitsha, Anambra State, Mrs. Odoh’s life took a tragic turn when she and her husband were involved in a motor accident. The crash resulted in severe injuries to her thighs and waist, leading to a prolonged battle with immobility. Despite initial treatments, her condition deteriorated, rendering her unable to perform basic movements.
“I survive on charity,” she shared, her voice tinged with both gratitude and despair. “I had an accident that fractured my thighs and dislocated my hip. The injuries demobilized me. I was treated, but my health condition kept worsening. At a stage, even to shake my legs became a problem. I have sold everything I have to treat my ailment. Even to feed is becoming impossible. It is becoming much more difficult for me to survive.”
A Community’s Effort
Moved by her plight, Mr. Mathew Ugwueya, a compassionate member of the community, facilitated her admission to an orthopedic specialist hospital in Onitsha’s GRA. Comprehensive tests unveiled a tumor in her bone, alongside a complete dislocation of her hip. Despite these challenges, Mrs. Odoh clings to hope, managing slight movements in her legs.
“Her hip was also discovered to have been completely dislocated,” Mr. Ugwueya recounted. “She manages to shake her legs. It is terrible. We are considering taking her back home to source funds. We appeal to governments, individuals, and agencies to come to her rescue. The estimated cost of operating her is N3.8 million.”
A Compounded Tragedy
The Odoh family’s hardships intensified with the passing of Mr. Odoh four months ago, leaving Mrs. Odoh and their four children in a precarious situation. The weight of her medical condition, coupled with the loss of her spouse, has thrust the family into financial and emotional turmoil.
The Financial Burden of Spinal Injuries in Nigeria
Spinal cord injuries impose significant financial burdens on affected individuals in Nigeria. A study conducted at the University College Hospital (UCH) in Ibadan revealed that the average direct cost of treatment for traumatic spinal cord injury (TSCI) is substantial, encompassing hospital bills, medical procedures, and rehabilitation services.
These costs often exceed the financial capacities of many Nigerians, leading to prolonged suffering and, in some cases, preventable complications.
A Call to Action
Mrs. Odoh’s situation underscores the urgent need for a collective response. Organizations such as the Spinal Cord Injuries Association of Nigeria (SCIAN) have been instrumental in supporting individuals with spinal cord injuries, advocating for their rights, and providing essential services.
Additionally, the Dubel Disability Foundation actively assists individuals with spinal cord injuries, offering resources and support to improve their quality of life.
Individuals and organizations willing to extend a helping hand can contact Mrs. Odoh directly at 0813049113 or reach out to Mr. Ugwueya at 08033644501. Financial contributions, no matter the size, can make a profound difference in her journey toward recovery.
A Community’s Hope
As Mrs. Odoh lies in her modest home, the weight of her circumstances is palpable. Yet, within her, a flicker of hope remains—a hope that compassionate individuals and organizations will come forward to assist her in reclaiming her mobility and, by extension, her life.
Her story is a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the enduring strength of the human spirit. It calls upon us all to reflect on our shared humanity and the profound impact of extending a helping hand to those in dire need.
For more information on how to assist Mrs. Odoh, please contact the numbers provided above.
Note: This article is based on real-life events and aims to raise awareness about the challenges faced by individuals with spinal cord injuries in Nigeria. All information has been provided with the consent of the individuals involved.
