From Struggle to Strength: Neneh’s Inspiring Journey with Cerebral Palsy
arianadiaries
Osman and Fatmata are the proud parents of Neneh, a bright and resilient young girl who has been living with cerebral palsy for fifteen years. Neneh’s journey has been one marked by challenges, determination, and ultimately, hope.
Just three days after her birth, Neneh began to show signs of physical complications. As a result, her parents took her to Ola During Children’s Hospital where she was admitted. After she was discharged, there was a recurring concern which alarmed her parents; whenever she had a fever, Neneh would regress from walking to crawling. This was not only physically difficult for her but also emotionally draining for her family.
The emotional toll deepened as Neneh began to face cruel treatment from some people in her community. They would bully her because of her looks and speech impairment. Her mother, in particular, was heartbroken when neighbours began to mock the child, even calling her “a devil child.” But just when it seemed the family was losing hope, a compassionate family friend introduced them to World Hope International’s Enable the Children Program, a turning point in Neneh’s story.
Osman and his wife Fatmata wasted no time. They made their way to the World Hope physiotherapy clinic based at Aberdeen Women’s Centre at the time, went through the process of registering, and were assessed by Rehabilitation Therapists who did checks and tests and confirmed Neneh had cerebral palsy.
At the time, she was just three years old and was still unable to stand let alone walk. The visit to World Hope physiotherapy clinic that fateful day marked the beginning of a new chapter in the lives of Neneh’s family.
World Hope’s dedicated team began physiotherapy, which was the recommended treatment for Neneh’s condition. Although cerebral palsy is a lifelong condition, there are many things that can be done to improve quality of life and prevent further complications. The Rehabilitation Therapists from the organization started doing exercises with her to build muscle strength, teach her to walk, and support the stretching of muscles and joints that had become tight. The organization ensured that proper medical care was rendered to her since she was a young girl and continues to this day as a teenager. Since the relationship between the two parties was established, World Hope International has been in charge of providing custom-built chairs to aid her mobility and posture both at home and school. They have remained committed to her progress ever since, adjusting and rebuilding her chair as she grows, and ensuring that she continues to thrive physically and emotionally.
“One thing I am very grateful for is the fact that my daughter started talking and walking when World Hope intervened and started treatment on her,” said Osman, her father.
About Cerebral Palsy
Cerebral palsy (CP) is a group of disorders that affect movement, muscle tone, and posture. It is caused by damage to the developing brain, usually before birth, during delivery, or shortly after birth in the first two years of life. Symptoms typically appear in infancy or preschool years and can vary greatly in severity.
Children with cerebral palsy may experience:
Stiff or floppy muscles (spasticity or low muscle tone)
Exaggerated reflexes
Irregular posture or involuntary movements
Difficulties with walking or unstable gait
Challenges with swallowing, vision, or hearing
In some cases, seizures, intellectual disabilities, or communication difficulties
Importantly, cerebral palsy does not worsen over time, though symptoms may change as the child develops. While there is no cure, treatment such as physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and medical support can dramatically improve function and quality of life.
Physiotherapy: A Lifeline of Hope
Physiotherapy, also known as physical therapy, is a health care profession focused on restoring, maintaining, and maximizing physical functions and movements for individuals affected by injury, illness, or disability. This process encompasses a range of techniques, including exercise, stretching, and other physical modalities to help patients manage pain, improve mobility, and enhance overall well-being. For children with cerebral palsy like Neneh, physiotherapy provides not only medical benefits but also renewed confidence and hope.
Thriving Against the Odds
Today, Neneh is 15 years old and now in Junior Secondary School. Her academic performance is nothing short of inspiring: she topped her class in the National Primary School Examination (NPSE), an achievement that speaks volumes about her intelligence and determination. Although she still struggles with clear speech, Neneh understands quickly and is known for her sharp mind. She is dearly loved by her parents, extended family, and community, who now stand by her every step of the way.
Neneh’s story reflects a global reality: despite the challenges of cerebral palsy, many individuals: especially women who are thriving and achieving remarkable things.
Maysoon Zayid, a Palestinian-American comedian, actress, and disability advocate with cerebral palsy, has become an international figure using humor and storytelling to challenge stereotypes and promote inclusion.
Christy Brown, an Irish writer and painter who had severe cerebral palsy, overcame immense physical limitations to author My Left Foot, a globally celebrated memoir.
Francesca Martinez, a British comedian, writer, and actress living with cerebral palsy, has built a successful international career while advocating for disability rights and representation.
Their lives and Neneh’s journey are proof that cerebral palsy does not define a person’s potential. With support, care, and opportunity, individuals with CP can live meaningful, impactful, and inspiring lives.
Disclaimer: This story is shared by Ariana Diaries purely to spread light, not to sell anything. We are not affiliated with or sponsored by World Hope International. Consider this our small way of amplifying humanity: because hope is too good not to be shared.
