Odoch defies cerebral palsy to pursue his dreams

Emmy Odoch, a communications associate at Nation Media Group, has built a career that reflects his passions for reading, writing, and technology. He also co-owns Brave Home Solutions Limited, a cleaning business in Gulu City. His life is proof that children born with cerebral palsy can achieve their dreams.

Born with cerebral palsy, Odoch faced challenges in movement, posture, speech, and hearing.

“My parents, both medical personnel, especially my mother, ensured I accessed education and became who I am today,” he says. “She shared stories about physiotherapy sessions and hospital visits, and even our family photos tell the story.”

Odoch didn’t start school at the same age as his peers. However, he was homeschooled for kindergarten, then joined Primary One alongside his age mates. His parents made sure to brief his teachers about his condition, enabling a safer and more inclusive school environment.

“Even then, not everyone in school knew about my condition,” he recalls.

“This meant I sometimes missed the extra attention I needed to grasp class activities.”

Friends played a significant role in his life. “They look at me differently and have always been attentive to my communication needs, patiently listening and encouraging me,” he shares. Their support extended beyond the classroom, helping him thrive socially and physically. “I joined football games, which improved my physical development. Over time, I even played in a renowned local tournament for children,” he adds.

Academically and socially, Odoch excelled, building his confidence. “It changed how I viewed myself, especially during moments of self-doubt,” he reflects.

His leadership at Brave Home Solutions is a testament to his abilities. “My colleagues gave me authority where I could thrive and covered for me where I was disadvantaged, but they still respect me as their superior,” he says.

He is also thankful for doing his internship at St. Jude Children’s Home in Gulu, where he worked in the agricultural department. The home takes care of children with special needs and he was deeply impacted by them. He vividly recalls meeting a mother with a child unable to sit or talk. “When I told her I have a similar condition, she was shocked but motivated. It showed her that her child could also live a better life,” he says.

Odoch believes that more needs to be done to raise awareness about cerebral palsy.

“With the right support, children born with it can live fulfilling lives, contribute to their communities, and reach their full potential,” he says.