NYSC member offers free genotype test to Nasarawa residents
Some 150 residents of Nasarawa State on Thursday benefited from a free Genotype testing organised by a National Youth Service Corp (NYSC) member, Patrick Ruth-Asheazi.
The corp member with State code NS/23A/2517 is currently serving at the Ministry of Special Duties, Humanitarian, Social Services.
Speaking during the exercise in Lafia, Ruth-Asheazi explained that she initiated the programme to help tackle the dreaded Sickle Cell disease.
The initiator said she was motivated to conduct the testing to help residents know their genotypes so as to take appropriate actions in order to live healthy lives.
She said that the gesture was part of her Community Development Service (CDS) in the State.
Ruth-Asheazi who is also a carrier of sickle cell, expressed gratitude to the NYSC for giving her the permission to impact the lives of the people positively.
She also appreciated Maidunama Sickle Cell Foundation and her place of primary assignment for partnering with her to provide drugs and other health kits aimed at assisting sickle cell patients who were present during the event.
“I feel fulfilled today for actualising this project. The Sickle Cell disease is one of the genetic disorders in which the victims have no single fault and did not play any role to be born with it.
“Unfortunately, in this 21st century, many parents, adolescents, teenagers and children within our communities have little or no knowledge of this disease.
“Sadly, the impact of this ignorance has led to so many couples getting married without considering their genotypes, and as such, increasing the number of sickle cell patients in the society,” she added.
She listed some challenges confronting sickle cell patients to include, lack of finance to purchase drugs and inadequate attention by healthcare workers.
“We usually have restless nights, severe body pains and all other health issues,” she said.
Asheazi appealed to the State government to prioritise the welfare of people living with the ailment in the state to give them a sense of belonging.
On his part, State Officer of Maidunama Sickle Cell Foundation, Sarki Muhammad-Umar, pledged their commitment to continue to support individuals or associations in order to tackle sickle cell disease amongst the residents.
Earlier in her remarks, Magret Elayo, Commissioner for Special Duties commended the Corps member for her commitment towards improving the lives of the people despite being a carrier of the sickle cell disease.
