Parents of children born with clubfoot, a congenital condition that twists the feet inward, are being urged to seek early treatment at Christian Health Association of Ghana (CHAG) and Hope Walks partner clinics, where care is completely free.
This is because Clubfoot is treatable, especially when diagnosed early, and parents are encouraged to act quickly.
This call was made by Nana Afua Adutwumwaa Adjetey, Country Program Manager for the Ghana Clubfoot Program, during the World Clubfoot Day celebration held at the St. John of God Hospital in Duayaw-Nkwanta, Tano North Municipality, Ahafo Region.
The event brought together families from across the country – including Nkaseim, Manso, Sunyani, and Adamsu—whose children had successfully completed treatment.
These parents shared emotional testimonies of transformation to inspire others who are hesitant in seeking the appropriate medical attention.
Remove stigma
“Clubfoot is not a curse,” said Nana Afua. “It’s a condition that can be seen at birth and completely corrected between the ages of zero and five. We must remove the stigma and encourage affected families to seek the free treatment available at CHAG and Hope Walks centers nationwide.”
CHAG and Hope Walks provide treatment at various locations, including St. John of God Hospital (Duayaw-Nkwanta), Holy Family Hospital (Techiman), SDA Hospital (Gbawe and Kwadaso), 37 Military Hospital (Accra), Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (Kumasi), and Tamale Teaching Hospital.
Since the program’s inception in 2008, over 8,000 children have received life-changing treatment. At this year’s celebration, certificates and souvenirs were presented to several discharged children, including a 14-year-old aspiring nurse, a 7-year-old girl who dreams of becoming a beautician, a 6-year-old boy who wants to be an engineer, and a 5-year-old future soldier.
Full treatment
Nana Afua emphasized that families must commit to the full treatment process, which includes the casting phase, tenotomy (a minor surgical procedure), and the maintenance phase using the foot abduction brace (Stembick Brace).
“Our goal is to make sure no child is left behind because of financial limitations. CHAG and Hope Walks are here to ease that burden”, she said
Mr. Thomas Quaye Dodzi, Head of the Physiotherapy Department, encouraged families to be ambassadors of the program by spreading the word about the availability of free care. Meanwhile, Dr. Kobina Tsibo-Takyi, Medical Director of St. John of God Hospital, expressed his joy at seeing the children walk without stigma. “When we see these children healed, we know we’ve made a real difference,” he stated.
Nana Afua concluded with a call to action: “We urge parents, communities, health workers, government agencies, faith-based organizations, and donors to join us. Support the Ghana Clubfoot Program. Help CHAG and Hope Walks ensure every child gets the chance to walk with pride and dignity.”
To support or refer a child for treatment, contact 0244 879 948. #JoinTheSmileMovement#
Story by Daniel Yao Dayee, Duayaw-Nkwanta
