From TCNEWS
The StraightChild Foundation (TSCF), Saturday, hosted a transformative Parent Support Group meeting in Umuahia, Abia state, aimed at nurturing mental resilience and optimism among parents and children living with cerebral palsy (CP), in a powerful ceremony marking the International Day of Hope on 12 July.
Held at 47 Road M, World Bank, the gathering brought together around 40 participants, including parents, the renowned clinical psychologist Mr. Eric Onumkpu from Federal Medical Centre, Umuahia. The meeting combined expert guidance with community solidarity and was capped off with heartfelt gift: a brand-new android phone presented to veteran journalist Sir Emmanuel Ejiogu of Lumen Newspapers.
Educating the participants, Mr. Onumkpu emphasized mental health as the cornerstone of effective caregiving. He stressed that caring for a child with CP requires emotional strength and resilience, both for the child and the parent. The psychologist warned that neglecting mental well-being can lead to conditions such as hypertension and depression. With compassionate clarity, he urged parents not to relinquish hope:
“There is still hope for CP children… their health condition is not the end of the world.”
Underlining the influence of relationships, he noted that children with CP often develop their character through the support and attitudes of those around them. “The mental health of your child is paramount, likewise yours,” he reminded attendees, reinforcing that both parent and child deserve emotional care, validation, and optimism.
The event underscores the crucial role of mental health in caregiving, highlighting that emotional well-being for caregivers and children is not secondary, but central. It embodies global efforts to foster hope, alignment with UN‑endorsed values of tolerance, dignity and inclusion. The gift symbolize both practical assistance and symbolic encouragement, strengthening community bonds and affirming belief in a brighter future.
In a brief speech, Mr. Wilson Oluyomi, Head of Communication and Advocacy, noted that despite the challenging weather conditions, the meeting had full attendance.
He described the session as both educational and emotional, and gave special thanks to Dr. Eric for facilitating the lecture, answering questions, and helping parents feel acknowledged.
“We also extend our gratitude to the Ministry of Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection for sending a representative,” he said, and thanked all TSCF volunteers who dedicated their time to help coordinate the programme.
The session also shared best caregiving practices, highlighting the benefits of routine, positive reinforcement, and self-care. Onumkpu called on society at large, not just families, to foster environments of inclusion and encouragement for those affected by CP. He commended TSCF for its pivotal role in educating parents and promoting mental-health awareness around cerebral palsy.
By integrating expert insights with tangible support and community engagement, the event truly embodied the spirit of the International Day of Hope—a day, per UN resolution, to champion peace, dignity—and above all—hope.
