ASLT May newsletter written by one of our MSc students - Ms. Gladys Ofosu. It is an excellently written piece titled CAN ‘ABIBIDURO’ CURE MY SON’S CEREBRAL PALSY?
DEPARTMENT OF AUDIOLOGY, SPEECH AND LANGUAGE THERAPY-ASLT ASLT NEWSLETTER
By: Gladys Ofosu May 19, 2026 “CAN ‘ABIBIDURO’ CURE MY SON’S CEREBRAL PALSY?” This is a question my mother asked repeatedly as she moved my brother between herbalists. Kwame was born after a long labour. He appeared distressed at first but then came the cry every mother longs to hear and for a moment, all seemed well. Unknown to us, our CP journey had just begun. In the weeks that followed, the unsolicited advice came in abundance, from neighbors, relatives, and well- meaning friends; each with their own interpretation of what was happening with Kwame. During welfare clinics, what we call ‘weighing’, nurses noticed Kwame was not meeting his milestones and referred him to a pediatrician. My mother refused. At 6 months, he could not lift his head, his legs were stiff and his fists tightly clenched. She turned to grandma, who recommended the first herbalist. By age 5, he had seen several herbalists yet could neither walk nor speak. It was not until Kwame was eventually seen by a medical professional that the pieces began to fall into place. He was diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy (CP), a condition we had never heard of, and no herbalist had been able to name. CP affects how the brain develops, impacting communication, movement and daily functioning. Birth complications are the leading cause in Ghana. Herbal medicine is deeply rooted in our culture, and this is understandable. However, herbal remedies are not proven to reverse conditions like CP and dosages are often unclear and unregulated. There is no scientific evidence that ‘abibiduro’ can cure CP. Early intervention through Speech and Language Therapy, Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy can significantly improve outcomes. My mother's journey, though driven by love, cost Kwame precious years. If you notice any developmental red flags, seek therapy early it can make all the difference.
Email: audio.speech.lang@ug.edu.gh Email: audio.speech.lang@ug.edu.gh Email: audio.speech.lang@ug.edu.gh