To help provide a better life for children and families. To help children suffer less from the symptoms of Nodding Syndrome. We will provide psychosocial support and access to medical care which will restore dignity and hope to these children and their families. We will provide nutrition and play which will reduce stigma through education and support for the families affected. The region has experienced trauma and cultural disintegration over decades of war and neglect.
Nodding Syndrome is a mysterious and little known disease affecting the brain and nervous system of children. The disease leaves children physically stunted, weak and emaciated. Most victims are unable to attend school and often need someone with them at all times. Besides the direct health consequences on the sufferers there are wider social effects on the family. Dealing with the disease is in itself a traumatic experience for family members. There is no cure but we can provide a better life.
The project intends to approach the escalating problem of Nodding Syndrome in the targeted community through improving nutrition and the psychosocial wellbeing of the affected children. By educating families to better care for their children through the provision of proper and adequate nutritious foods and access to anti-seizure medication it is known that the children can improve medically and psychologically. Many children can return to school benefiting the family and community.
This project will directly benefit 50 families numbering about 350 people. This project will reduce the stigma and social isolation associated with Nodding Syndrome and will benefit the whole community. Nodding Syndrome cases have been widely underreported. Deaths have been underreported. Children die every day from lack of medical care and support. This project will also cooperate and collaborate with other multinational and national efforts for the eventual eradication of Nodding Syndrome.
This project has provided additional documentation in a Microsoft Excel file (projdoc.xls).
