By Scholarstical Nnabuife
In a heartwarming display of resilience, Mr Ifeanyi Onochie, from Ika North East, Delta State, a 44-year-old father diagnosed with poliomyelitis, continues to work tirelessly to provide for his family despite his challenges.
Polio (poliomyelitis) is caused by the poliovirus. While it causes mild or no symptoms in most people, it can lead to paralysis or even death in others. There are three variations of the poliovirus, known as types 1, 2, and 3 (WPV1, WPV2, and WPV3). Polio mainly affects the nerves in the spinal cord or brainstem. In its most severe form, polio can leave a person unable to move certain limbs.
There is no cure for polio; treatment can only alleviate the symptoms. Heat and physical therapy are used to stimulate the muscles, and antispasmodic drugs are given to relax them.
While these treatments can improve mobility, prevention through vaccination remains the best approach. Routine childhood vaccination, catch-up vaccinations for adolescents, and targeted vaccinations for high-risk adult groups are the most effective preventive measures. Good personal hygiene, particularly proper handwashing, is also crucial in preventing the disease.
Mr Ifeanyi Onochie is a symbol of determination and hope, facing an uphill battle not only against his illness but also in his quest to provide for his family. Despite the challenges posed by his condition, he continues to work tirelessly, embodying the spirit of perseverance that many admire.
Mr Onochie, who was diagnosed with polio when he was just one year old, has faced numerous obstacles throughout his life. However, his determination to support his wife, Mrs Loveth-Nkechi Onochie, and their three children remains unwavering.
Reflecting on his journey, he said, “Growing up with polio didn’t hold me down because I could do whatever my mates were doing. Back then, I walked without crutches. I was able to finish both primary and secondary school with the help of my parents, Mr and Mrs Onochie. After secondary school, I started doing minor jobs just to survive as a young man. It was very difficult, but begging on the street was never an option.”
He continued, “I was once a vibrant youth, but as I grew older, I noticed my muscles weakening. My diagnosis turned my world upside down and left me struggling with mobility. Yet, I refuse to let my condition define me.”
In 2020, he and his wife teamed up to buy a second-hand tricycle (popularly known as Keke). “The hustle is not easy because of my illness and the condition of the keke,” Mr Onochie explains. “Today we work, and for the next three days, I’m at the mechanic. Traffic authorities and road safety officers often complain that my keke is too old, but I overlook these challenges because this is my only means of survival. At least it puts food on the table. It’s an everyday struggle, but I can’t let my condition stop me from being a father to my children.”
His wife runs a roadside business, but the profits are meagre. “Sometimes she makes good sales, but other times, especially during the rainy season, it’s as though she didn’t go to the market at all.
“Being a keke rider comes with its own set of difficulties. I often face rough roads, potholes, and uneven surfaces, which make it difficult to maneuver. Long hours of driving leave me exhausted, and my muscles weaken even faster. But I keep pushing, because I must put food on the table,” he said.
Mr Onochie admits that providing for his family, while also covering medical treatments and school fees for the children, is a huge challenge. He appeals for assistance from the member representing Ika North East Local Government Area in Delta State House of Assembly, Honourable Marilyn Okowa-Daramola, the member representing Ika Federal Constituency at the Green Chamber of the National Assembly (NASS), Rt. Honourable Victor Nwokolo, the Senator representing Delta North in the Red Chamber of the NASS, Prince Ned Nwoko and other well-meaning Nigerians to come to his aid. He added that life is becoming unbearable with his old tricycle. There is dignity in labour. I don’t want to sit by the road side to beg for alms. I want to work, earn a living and cater for my family”, He explained.
According to him: “Sometimes I feel like I’m hustling for the community too. After a long day’s work, the area boys or robbers wait for me to take whatever little I’ve made. I can’t run, so they always succeed. But despite that, I’ll go again tomorrow.”
He added, “Most people don’t want to enter my keke because of my deformity and the condition of the vehicle, especially those who know me. Because of that, I lose passengers and money.”
Amidst his daily struggles, Mr Onochie’s courage and resolve stay as strong as ever. Refusing to let polio script his destiny, he fights on, turning up each day just to keep providing for his family.
