Comfort Aoko has lived in Ireland for the past 9 years and in Whitechurch for the past 5 years, with her three children, Victor, Michelle and Bolu who attend Whitechurch National School and are members of local Athletics, GAA, Soccer, Basketball and Rugby club’s. Comfort suffers from a Neurological condition, called Cervical Dystonia, since 2009, which causes involuntary muscle contractions that force the neck into an abnormal position. She was in constant pain and the only treatment available to her in Ireland for this condition was Botox injections and pain relief. Despite her pain and discomfort, she has never taken a day off work in nine years and because of her illness had to work standing up with the aid of a specially adapted desk. This summer whilst attending a wedding in Portugal, she collapsed due to seizure, caused by her condition Her Portuguese consultant told her that if she did not get treatment, she would be wheelchair bound, within a year. Treatment was available there, that could allow her lead a normal life, pain-free and return her to normal movement, unfortunately the treatment was not and is not available here in Ireland. After a lot of investigation, Comfort realised that Portugal was the cheapest place to get this operation and was assured by the Consultants that she had no time to waste, as her condition would be irreversible if not treated immediately. She secured loans and help from colleagues in order to pay the €50,000 for this operation, which took place last November. Comfort was back home within three weeks of the procedure and back at work a week later, sitting at a desk! The difference is unbelievable, she has energy again and does not have to go for a rest as soon as she comes from work and most importantly is pain free. Comfort is self-supporting and independent and would never think of asking for help from her friends and her Community. Her many friends and acquaintances who see the special strong person that she is, have come together to help her with this financial burden. Since December and over the coming months, clubs in the area, Carrignavar Basketball, Whitechurch GAA, Rockán Football & Camogie Club, Rockmount Soccer Club, Whitechurch Foroige, Toddler Group and Whitechurch Tennis are holding various fundraisers in aid of this deserving cause. St. Patrick’s National School, Whitechurch held a Christmas Theme day and Old Christians RFC had a Christmas Day Swim, benefitting Comfort’s Cause. On December 15th Whitechurch and Waterloo Community Association launched a charity text service in aid of Comforts Cause. If you can spare €4 please text and help this remarkable local lady.
