Dr. Nelly Adade, a pediatrician and member of the Pediatric Society of Ghana has appealed to President John Dramani Mahama to consider healthcare for children in the country.
In what was contained in a congratulatory message to the President on the day of his inauguration, and which was copied to the Ghana News Agency, the Pediatrician drew attention of a priority for a child healthcare regime and prayed the new leader to commit to the cause.
The inauguration also marked the birthday of Dr. Adade, and the message, titled “A Pediatrician’s Birthday Wish”, painted a canvas of the present care situation and outlook.
Sharing stories from years of pediatric practice, Dr. Adade pointed out the toll of the present economic hardship on child nutrition, and said basic protein eluded many.
Dr Adade called for a real policy of free healthcare for children under five, saying it seemed to work only on paper.
He also appealed to the President of the Republic to consider crucial services such as dialysis and ambulance for children, ensuring availability and free access.
President Mahama was called upon to address what she called “sick hospitals caring for sick children”, noting how the lack of equipment affected the delivery of care for the nation’s future generations.
Dr Adade finally pointed out the health disaster threatening the nation by illegal mining, calling for strict measures in dealing with the practice.
“The Ghanaian child is resilient, but resilience alone is not enough. I have seen children fight for their lives with unimaginable strength, but they need a system that fights alongside them. If we make Ghana a child-friendly nation, we will nurture a generation of bright, patriotic leaders who will take this country to greater heights.
My birthday wish today is simple: that the children of Ghana receive the care, protection, and opportunities they deserve. Together, we can make this vision a reality,” she added.
Ordinarily, I would mark this day quietly, but this year I’ve chosen a different path. As a paediatrician, my greatest wish today is to amplify the voices of those who cannot speak for themselves—the children of Ghana. Over the years, I have learned the art of “begging” to support their healthcare and wellbeing, and today I come to your doorstep with outstretched hands and an open heart, seeking your intervention in these critical matters.
GNA
