Science is about to defeat disability
7th October, 2021
Strive Trust, a leading organization focused on healthcare advocacy, organized an international conference titled “Sciences is About To Defeat Disability” on October 7, 2021. The conference aimed to address the treatment options for spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) and its availability in Pakistan. This event brought together experts, policymakers, healthcare professionals, and representatives from multinational pharma companies to raise awareness about SMA and its impact on patients in the country.
Background:
During the conference, several speakers highlighted the pressing issue of inadequate treatment facilities and data for SMA in Pakistan. This situation poses significant challenges for patients and their families, leaving them with limited options and little hope for effective management of the disease. The collaboration between Strive Trust and multinational pharma companies showcased their commitment to finding sustainable solutions for this debilitating condition.
Organizers
Lalchand Mali, a prominent member of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and Member of National Assembly (MNA), pledged the government’s support in ensuring access to quality healthcare for all citizens, especially those with disabilities. While acknowledging the lack of a permanent cure for SMA, Mali recognized the importance of striving for affordable treatment options that can improve the quality of life for affected individuals.
Event Highlights
Yasir Khan, the founder of Strive Trust and a brave SMA patient himself, shared his personal experience with the disease during the conference. He emphasized the need for policymakers and government institutions to be more sensitive to the needs of differently-abled individuals. By providing better support and improved access to treatment, many lives can be saved, and the burden on affected families can be eased. The conference also witnessed insights from Jasdev Singh Sandhu and Nerish Sasedharan, representatives of the renowned Asian robotics company Cyberdyde from Japan. They shared their views on how robotics can play a pivotal role in assisting SMA patients in their recovery journey. Drawing upon the success of robotics in aiding stroke and injury recovery, Cyberdyde plans to introduce their cutting-edge products in Pakistan in the near future, aiming to improve the overall care and mobility of SMA patients.
