By; Rebecca Ampah
As part of her 70th birthday celebration, the Founder and General Overseer of Solid Rock Chapel International, Rev. Dr. Christy Doe Tetteh, has donated a wide range of items to the Accra Psychiatric Hospital.
The donation, valued at approximately GH₵138,000, is aimed at supporting the daily needs of patients at the facility.
Items presented included 70 mattresses, 150 packs of water, 200 pieces of washing powder, 2,800 pieces of toilet rolls, 50 packs of drinks, one 50kg bag of gari, two packs of 3kg washing powder, two 50kg bags of maize, one 50kg bag of beans, 100 bags of rice, and 10 boxes of cooking oil.
Speaking at the presentation, Rev. Dr. Tetteh, affectionately known as “Mama Grace,” said her visits to the hospital span nearly three decades, but described this occasion as particularly special.
“Coming to the psychiatric hospital is not new to us, but this time, it is very special,” she said.
She attributed her passion for supporting mental health patients to her personal background and family experiences.
“I come from a very poor background, and I have a family member who suffered the fate of many of the people here. I have suffered what others are suffering because of my family members,” she shared.
Apostle (Mrs.) Lyanne Koffi, who is the founder and general overseer of The Lord’s Garden Ministries (TLGM), speaking at the event commended her long-standing commitment to philanthropy, highlighting that throughout her ministry, she has consistently supported vulnerable groups, including visits to institutions such as schools for the blind.
“We know there is so much need in this place, and on behalf of Rt. Rev. Mama Christy, we donate these items to the hospital,” she stated.
Receiving the items, the Director of the hospital, Dr. Kwadwo Marfo Obeng, expressed appreciation and raised concerns about the stigma and neglect faced by persons living with mental illness.
“There are so many people who give up on those suffering from mental illness because they do not believe recovery is possible. We cannot write anybody off,” he said.
He revealed that more than 100 patients are currently on admission and majority have no relatives checking up on them, describing the situation as a growing challenge.
“It is the loss of hope that leads to death and abandonment,” he added, noting that the donated items would significantly support the hospital in meeting patients’ everyday needs.
Reflecting on her journey, Rev. Dr. Tetteh reaffirmed her commitment to helping others.
“Sometimes I didn’t even have what to eat. So if by the grace of God today I am able to stand, I need to help others to also stand,” she said.
