In a heart-wrenching but inspiring story, Ekeshili Uche Chika, a young man from Okwani in Delta State, is calling on well-meaning Nigerians for urgent assistance. Uche, who sustained a spinal cord injury following a tragic accident, has remained confined indoors due to his inability to afford a specialized wheelchair essential for his mobility and independence. Despite the odds, he has demonstrated resilience by learning graphic design and now hopes to secure clients to earn a living and regain his footing.
The Cost of Recovery: Wheelchair and Hospital Bills Take a Toll
Following intensive medical care, Uche was discharged from the hospital but faces overwhelming financial burdens. His recovery has been further complicated by the high cost of specialized wheelchairs required for individuals with spinal cord injuries. A manual wheelchair suitable for his condition costs nearly 500,000 Naira, while an electric wheelchair—offering more convenience—would cost over 1 million Naira. Without a proper wheelchair, Uche’s movements remain severely restricted, forcing him to stay indoors.
“I want to be able to move around, to have a bit of independence,” Uche said in a soft but determined voice. “I can’t afford to get the wheelchair I need, and being confined to one spot is affecting my recovery and ability to work.”
Even after being discharged, Uche still faces frequent hospital visits, adding to the financial strain. He continues to depend on medical support for urination, using catheters, and undergoes dialysis treatments—essential yet expensive medical care that threatens to overwhelm his already limited resources.
Turning Adversity into Opportunity: Uche Learns Graphic Design
Undeterred by his situation, Uche used his time indoors to learn graphic design, acquiring skills that he now hopes will open new doors for him. “I have always wanted to be productive,” he explained. “Learning graphic design gave me hope and something to look forward to. Now, I just need people to give me a chance and patronize my services so I can support myself.”
Uche’s story is one of immense courage and determination. Despite the daily challenges of living with a spinal cord injury, he is striving to build a life for himself by leveraging his new skills. However, without a wheelchair and steady income, his dream of independence seems out of reach.
The Qualitative Magazine Calls for Support
The Qualitative Magazine, Nigeria’s foremost disability advocacy publication, has stepped in to amplify Uche’s appeal for assistance. Known for its commitment to giving a voice to persons with disabilities (PWDs) across the country, the magazine is urging Nigerians to rally around Uche in this difficult time.
The publication is calling for donations to help Uche acquire a wheelchair that meets the specific needs of someone with a spinal cord injury. It also appeals to individuals, businesses, and organizations to patronize Uche’s graphic design services, which will allow him to earn a living and manage his continuous treatment.
“We are pleading with well-meaning Nigerians to support Uche,” the magazine’s editorial team said. “He needs both manual and electric wheelchairs for mobility, and he is ready to work. By engaging his design services, you will be giving him the opportunity to rebuild his life and maintain his dignity.”
How You Can Help
Nigerians are encouraged to support Uche by donating towards the purchase of a suitable wheelchair or by engaging him for graphic design services. Individuals who have unused or second-hand wheelchairs that meet the required specifications for spinal cord injury patients are also urged to donate them, you donate for purchase of the wheelchair.
Every bit of help counts—whether it is financial support, business patronage, or medical assistance. Your contribution will not only change Uche’s life but also inspire hope for many others facing similar challenges.
For Donations or Support:
- His Phone Number: 08032512139
- Account Name: Ekeshili Uche Chika
- Account Number: 0023682028
- Bank: GTBank
Please reach out if you have a suitable wheelchair for Uche, as he needs it urgently to regain mobility and independence. The magazine also appeals to all Nigerians to remember that small acts of kindness can go a long way in transforming lives.
A Story of Resilience Waiting for a New Chapter
Uche’s story is a reminder of the challenges faced by many persons with disabilities in Nigeria. Without access to essential mobility aids and financial support, they are often left behind. However, his determination to learn a skill and become self-sufficient shows that disability is not a limitation but an opportunity to discover new strengths.
The Qualitative Magazine hopes that through public support, Uche will be able to overcome the obstacles he faces and build a future for himself. With a wheelchair, medical assistance, and business opportunities, Uche is ready to move beyond his current struggles.
This is more than just an appeal for help—it is a call to action for every Nigerian to play a part in uplifting a fellow citizen.
Watch his Appeal
