Diocese on the Niger has Flagged off a Sensitization march on Sickle Cell Anemia, and Genetic Education with a call on the Association of People living with Sickle cell Disorder (APLSCD) to embrace salvation and refused to be intimidated.
The March took place at the Bethany Chapel, Crowther Retreat centre, Inland town Onitsha, yesterday.
In an Opening address, the National Coordinator of people living with sickle cell disorder, Aisha Edwards appreciated the host of the event, Rt Revd Dr Owen Nwokolo who immediately gave out a spiritual Director, Ven Joe Akunazobi,to lead and encourage them.
Aisha noted that some of the Challenges the carriers pass through came from the parents who at the early stage pass death sentence on them, withdraw their rights in the family and also frustrate them and also blamed some members for their stubborn nature and bitterness towards their parents and that’s why a spiritual director is needed.
She added that other challenges include discouragement from health workers to the parents of the Carriers, withdrawal of their rights in the society by the Government among others and called on mothers of the Diocese on the Niger to support the Chaplain in other to ease their pains.
Representing the Human Right defendants of Nigeria,Barr. Noel Udeoji said they will partner with the group in the direction of the church to ensure that their rights in the society is given to them while the representative of the President of the Christian Council Of Nigeria,CCN, Mr Paul Ekenam promised that the council will willingly work with the association to help disseminate information and be able to engage the government through the masses.
The Chaplain of the association, Ven Joe Akunazobi on behalf of the bishop on the Niger, Rt Revd Owen Nwokolo, presented food items like bags of rice,drinks and physical cash to the group.
Alpha Radio reporter, Utonwanne Onekanma gathered that the event was graced by the director and vicar of Crowther Retreat Centre and Motherless Babies, Ven Dr Sylvester Nwagbo among others.
Highlights of the event include dedication of the APLSCD daily prayers and refreshment for the members.
By. Utonwanne Onekamma.