A Ray of Hope for Children with Nodding Syndrome
Nodding Relief Organisation (NRO) is a Non-Profit Organisation based in Uganda – East Africa, that seeks to create awareness of Nodding Syndrome, its impact and offer relief to the children suffering from it.
The Nodding Syndrome has affected some 5,000 children in rural northern Uganda since 2007. Nodding Syndrome disease is characterized by head nodding, malnourishment and complicated by a variable presence of other seizure types that affects primarily children aged 5–15 years. The mysterious disease affects the brain and nervous system, and those affected display a sleepy appearance, have seizures, and lose contact with the world around them. The neurological and physical complications are known to lead to premature death.
Many children with Nodding Syndrome die young, they can fall into cooking fires or drown in neighboring water bodies during a seizure when losing consciousness. Some of the affected children are abandoned by their families, raped, tortured and left for dead.
NRO has been established in 2023 with a purpose of providing both physical and psychological support to affected children, education and sensitization of the communities in the affected areas, advocating for policies and resources that prioritize the needs of children with Nodding Syndrome.
Our Mission
To create a positive impact by raising awareness about Nodding Syndrome, addressing its devastating effects, and offering comprehensive support to children suffering from this debilitating disease in rural northern Uganda. We strive to provide physical and psychological assistance, education, and community sensitization while advocating for policies and resources that prioritize the needs of children with Nodding Syndrome
Our Vision
To create a world where children affected by Nodding Syndrome in Uganda have access to compassionate care, are free from discrimination and violence, and can lead fulfilling lives despite their condition. We envision a society that is well-informed about Nodding Syndrome, where affected children receive the necessary support to maximize their potential and integrate into their communities, fostering a sense of belonging and inclusion.
Primary Objective
To provide holistic relief to children suffering from Nodding Syndrome in rural northern Uganda. We aim to offer physical and psychological support, including medical care, nutrition programs, rehabilitation services, and counseling to help improve their overall well-being. Additionally, we are committed to educating and sensitizing communities about Nodding Syndrome, reducing stigma, and promoting acceptance and understanding. Through advocacy efforts, we strive to influence policies and secure resources that prioritize the needs of these children, ensuring their right to a dignified and fulfilling life.
Other Objectives
- To create awareness of Nodding Syndrome, its impact and offer relief to the children suffering from it.
- To promote education programs to inform communities and healthcare professionals about Nodding Syndrome prevention, early detection, and appropriate interventions.
- To support affected children by providing comprehensive support services, including medical care, counseling, and rehabilitation, to children affected by Nodding Syndrome and their families.
- To advocate for policies and resources that prioritize the needs of children with Nodding Syndrome, such as improved access to healthcare services, research funding, and social support programs.