- Autistic Children Are Special, Not Witches.
- Walkathon raises awareness, medical support for autism.
- Parents asked to care, not abandon or mistreat autistic kids.
Health advocates have called for autistic children to be treated with care and dignity not shunned or blamed as witches.
According to Eko Hot Blog, the message came during the 6th Walkathon organized by the Billionaires Health Club in Calabar, Cross River State. The walk was held to draw attention to autism and related neuro-disorders, and to encourage public support for affected children.
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Elvert Ayambem, Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, who led the six-kilometre walk through major Calabar streets, reminded attendees that in past times children with autism were cruelly abandoned in so-called “evil forests” because of harmful beliefs. He emphasized that science has made clear autism is a medical condition not connected to witchcraft and urged parents to give these special children the care they deserve.
EKO HOT BLOG reports that William Archibong Jr, Chairman of the host health club, said the initiative is meant to help people understand autism and push for better medical and social support. He appealed to government and community leaders to ensure autistic children receive timely interventions and avoid stigmatization.
At the event’s endpoint at Millennium Park, health professionals and experts offered talks and advisory services to parents and caregivers, explaining how to manage autism and related neuro-disorders in a supportive environment.
Organizers stressed that autism is a global issue, not something unique to one region. They called on citizens everywhere to stop using derogatory labels, to stop demeaning autistic children, and to stop abandoning them in ignorance.
Caregivers who spoke at the event said they want both awareness and action: earlier diagnosis, access to medical care, inclusion in schools, and support systems in communities.
The awareness walk and related outreach efforts reflect growing recognition in Cross River State that people living with autism need love, not fear or shame. Experts say these children are special in their own way and deserve respect, opportunity, and protection.
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