Shai osudoku: Ms. Daniella Korletey, a community psychiatric nurse turned professional occupational therapist, has transformed the landscape for children with developmental delays in the Shai Osudoku District. Her journey began as a community psychiatric nurse, but after seven years, she sought a bigger challenge and enrolled in a degree program in Occupational Therapy at the University of Ghana.
According to Ghana News Agency, Daniella was eager to apply her new skills and chose to serve in the Shai Osudoku District. Despite occupational therapy being a new concept in the community, she was determined to introduce it, conducting home visitations and educating mothers about developmental milestones. Her dedication and community spirit earned her the trust of mothers, allowing her to access homes and provide much-needed support to children with disabilities.
A pivotal moment in Daniella’s journey was her encounter with Fatima Robin, a Liberian occupational therapist, at a conference in South Africa. Fatima’s interest in Daniella’s work led to her coming to Ghana to support the initiative. With a small room on the hospital premises and modest resources, Daniella began her practice, initially focusing on stroke survivors and later shifting to children with developmental delays, especially those with cerebral palsy.
Daniella’s efforts ignited a cultural shift in the community, leading to the formation of an association of mothers of children with special needs. The Ghana Health Service attempted to replicate her model in other districts, but challenges persisted. However, Daniella’s program thrived in Shai Osudoku, establishing satellite clinics to serve the community’s needs. The occupational therapy center in Shai Osudoku is the only one in Ghana and West Africa, providing critical services to children and families.
The Dodowa community now boasts an association for parents of children with developmental delays, with about 50 regular members. This association offers skills training in crafts like soap and juice making, empowering parents to build sustainable livelihoods. Additionally, Daniella collaborated with a local inclusive school, Blossom Bud, to integrate children with disabilities and provide on-site therapy services.
To support families whose children do not fit into traditional educational systems, Daniella established a day center, Adom Fie, offering a safe space for children while parents work. Her mentorship program and welfare fund further support families, demonstrating the profound impact of her inclusive model on the community.