People with albinism send SOS for lotions

Harare (New Ziana) –An organization representing people with albinism, Save the Needy House, is appealing for assistance to provide its members with lotions and sunscreen to protect their skins from the sun.

In an interview with New Ziana, STNH director Gibson Gurumani said most of their members had been affected by the Covid-19 lockdown and cannot afford the commodities which are expensive.

“Save The Needy House POV 2/2007… is appealing to well-wishers to provide lotions and walking aids to our disadvantaged communities,” he said.

Gurumani said individuals who used to donate the commodities had also been affected by Covid-19 hence can no longer assist them.

He said during the summer season, their members were affected by the sun.

Apart from lotions and walking aids, Gurumani said their members also needed personal protective equipment and clothing.

Albinism is a genetic condition where people are born without the usual pigment (colour) in their bodies.

Their bodies are not able to make a normal amount of melanin, the chemical that is responsible for eye, skin, and hair colour.

Most people with albinism have very pale skin, hair and eyes.

People with albinism need special protection from the sun (lotion, sunscreen, and clothes), as their skin is exceptionally sensitive to direct sunlight.

In order to prevent health issues, the condition forces people with albinism to spend most of their time indoors.

New Ziana