Saving lives

The problem

The most fundamental human right is the right to life. But in developing countries – where health services are often poor or non-existent – 75% of people who experience a spinal cord injury will die within 18 months from easily preventable secondary complications like pressure sores.

Exclusion and discrimination also put lives at risk. For example, mothers who give birth to children with cerebral palsy frequently face pressure from their communities to kill their babies, because they are seen as a burden or a curse.

Our solution

Our training for parents of children with cerebral palsy changes attitudes – and saves lives. By teaching parents how to position their children so that they can breathe properly and how to help their children eat and drink, we’re preventing children dying of malnutrition and respiratory problems.

In developing countries, many care givers and health workers don’t have the knowledge to care for people with spinal cord injuries. Our health training gives them the vital skills and expertise they need.

“One day, she will become an engineer!”

This is what Hellen dreams of for her daughter Favour. They’ve been attending our training for carers of children with cerebral palsy in Uganda – a course that has given Hellen the confidence to think big for Favour’s future. Hear from Hellen and our trainer Sue in our photo-film below.