A physically challenged man from Nkroful in the Ellembelle District, Mr. Mark Assuah Kofi, who has had one of his legs amputated, is appealing to the government and philanthropic individuals for financial support to help him through a distressing life situation.
He also urged the government to strengthen social support systems to better address the healthcare needs of persons with disabilities and the indigent in Ghanaian society.
Narrating his ordeal to Nzema Today TV during a visit to his residence, Mr. Kofi explained that his condition resulted from a natural disaster, he was struck in the face by lightning while returning home from his farm. He lost consciousness and collapsed. When he regained consciousness, he managed to slowly walk back home.
He recounted a second incident in which he was again struck in the face by what felt like lightning, this time just in front of his house. He collapsed and subsequently became paralyzed.
Following these traumatic experiences, he sought medical attention, and doctors advised that one of his legs be amputated.
Since then, Mr. Kofi has remained indoors, unable to work, and says life has become unbearable. He described the immense difficulty in earning a living, stressing how the situation has left him vulnerable and dependent.
Although he acknowledged that the government provides some support to persons with disabilities through the District Assembly’s Common Fund, he noted that the assistance is woefully inadequate to sustain his basic needs.
By Kodwo Nyamekeh
