The May edition of Dis-Ability Conversations was one that left a mark on every heart that tuned in. It wasn’t just a session—it was a deeply emotional, honest, and courageous conversation about what it truly means to raise a child with disabilities in our society.
Our speakers, Mrs. Akinsola Olaitan and Mrs. Muminat, are mothers, fighters, and advocates. They opened up about their personal journeys in a way that was unfiltered, real, and incredibly powerful.
A Year Without Answers
Mrs. Akinsola’s story began with uncertainty. At just 4 months old, her daughter had no neck control. The medical response was dismissive. Six months later, the situation hadn’t improved—but doctors were on strike, and her child went undiagnosed for over a year.
At 1 year and 8 months, she was finally diagnosed with cerebral palsy. The emotional weight of that moment was overwhelming. Mrs. Akinsola questioned everything—her womb, her motherhood, herself. But she chose not to stay in that dark place. She read, researched, and prepared herself for what she knew wouldn’t be an easy road.With her background in education, she home-schooled her daughter for four years, after facing rejection from schools. Eventually, at age 5, her daughter was admitted into a mainstream school—in an age-appropriate class. A win that speaks volumes.
Life Changed Overnight
For Mrs. Muminat, her journey began in 2015. Her son, Demilade, was just 5 months old when he had malaria. Treated without much concern, he fell ill again—and was diagnosed with meningitis. The damage was immediate. Everything he had developed—gone.
She spent months in denial before reality brought her back to the hospital and into a new world she hadn’t prepared for. Now, 10 years on, her focus is to ensure that her son can achieve mental independence.Both women shared how advocacy became a natural extension of their motherhood. They use social media not just to share their journey, but to push for solutions. In fact, one of them facilitated the establishment of an occupational therapy center in her area through consistent, passionate public advocacy.
More Than a Diagnosis
What made this session so unique was how raw and human it was. These mothers didn’t just speak about their children’s disabilities. They spoke about their own growth, their breaking points, and the systems that failed them.
They reminded us that raising a child with a disability is more than appointments, therapy, and paperwork _
It’s emotional.
It’s psychological.
And it’s societal.
Behind every diagnosis is a parent navigating unfamiliar terrain, often unsupported, often unheard – but always pushing forward.
The Power of Sharing Stories
If there’s one thing this edition of Dis-Ability Conversations reminded us of, it’s this: when parents share their truths, they give others the courage to face theirs.
Their stories challenge us to ask:
- Are our systems truly set up to support parents?
- Do we make room for vulnerable conversations?
- Are we listening to the people who live this reality every day?
We’re incredibly grateful to our guest speakers for sharing so openly and reminding us that every child deserves dignity, support, and the opportunity to thrive, and so do their parents.
Here’s the replay link, and don’t miss out on the next edition of Dis-Ability Conversations. The work continues, and so does the conversation.
Written by the Dis-Ability Conversations Team,
KTC-KYC Educational Consult & Academy Ltd.
