In commemoration of World Clubfoot Day, the Gbawe Seventh-day Adventist Hospital, in collaboration with the Christian Health Association of Ghana (CHAG) and supported by Hope Walks, organized a transformative awareness and outreach program to bring hope to families and children living with clubfoot.

This global observance honors the strength and resilience of children who have undergone treatment for clubfoot, while recognizing the dedication of caregivers, clinicians, and partner organizations working tirelessly to restore mobility and dignity to affected individuals.

Held under the theme “Every Child Deserves a Chance to Walk,” the event brought together healthcare professionals, parents, community members, and former patients in a celebration of healing, awareness, and hope.

Clubfoot is a congenital condition where a baby’s foot is twisted out of shape or position due to shortened tendons. If left untreated, it can lead to permanent disability. However, with early intervention, especially for children under five years, clubfoot is entirely treatable—often at no cost to families.

Mr. Wilson Kwame Korlor, the hospital’s Clubfoot Coordinator and Nurse Manager, emphasized the importance of early treatment and the need to eliminate the stigma surrounding clubfoot. “This is not a curse or spiritual punishment; it is a medical condition that can be corrected. No child should suffer shame or isolation because of clubfoot,” he told caregivers and attendees. He also called on communities to stop labeling affected children with offensive nicknames, stressing the emotional toll it takes on families.

Mr. Bernard Ofori Anning, the Hospital Administrator, commended staff and partners for their ongoing dedication to the cause. He revealed that since the inception of the program, 346 children and over 347 parents have received support—proof of growing awareness and trust in the hospital’s compassionate care.

Pediatric specialist Irene Agyeiwaa Mensah provided insights into the medical aspects of clubfoot, explaining that the condition is typically identified at birth or through prenatal scans. With the use of Ponseti casting and bracing techniques, full correction is possible over several months, especially when intervention begins early.

Angela Opoku, a hospital nutritionist, spoke on the crucial relationship between nutrition and physical development. She urged mothers to prioritize exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months and to incorporate protein-rich and nutrient-dense foods such as fish, liver, eggs, legumes, fruits, and vegetables to aid the proper growth of children.

In an interview with Hope Adventist News, Mr. Korlor reiterated that treatment is completely free for children under the age of five. He advised parents to seek medical care early and avoid traditional remedies or delay, which may worsen the condition.

Mr. Bernard Ofori Anning also highlighted the hospital’s commitment to providing quality care through well-trained staff, accessible resources, and strong partnerships with organizations like Hope Walks. He acknowledged challenges such as social stigma and late presentation but affirmed the hospital's resolve to serve every child in need.

Parents who benefited from the program shared emotional testimonies of their journey—from despair to hope—as their children regained mobility and confidence. Many expressed heartfelt gratitude to the medical team and partners who stood with them during their most difficult moments.

Francis Kusi Appiah, Parent Advisor at Hope Walks, explained the organization's vision of eliminating clubfoot as a lifelong disability. “Our mission is to equip local professionals, support parents emotionally and spiritually, and ensure every child with clubfoot receives timely and effective care,” he stated. He appealed for sustained support to continue reaching children across Ghana.

The Gbawe SDA Hospital’s celebration of World Clubfoot Day did more than raise awareness—it restored hope, affirmed dignity, and delivered healing. The event sent a strong and compassionate message: Clubfoot is not a life sentence. It is treatable. It is free. And every child deserves the chance to walk into a brighter, healthier future.