Avila, a two-year-old girl from Tanzania, loves to walk and play with other children. Beloved by her family and older sibling, she is a happy and friendly girl. Last year, Avila had heart surgery. She is doing well, but some excess nose tissue has grown on the bridge of her nose and changed her appearance.
Avila’s parents are concerned about the swelling and hope that the nose tissue can be removed, so their daughter can live a comfortable and normal life with confidence. Our medical partner, African Mission Healthcare Foundation (AMHF), shares, “If untreated, the abnormal appearance will reduce Avila’s self-confidence as she continues to grow due to criticism from her peers.”
Avila’s mother works as a tailor, and her father works as a motorcycle driver. Her parents work hard to take care of both of their children. Last year, Avila’s parents spent a large portion of their income on treatment for Avila’s heart condition and cannot afford the $920 it will cost to have Avila’s excess nose tissue removed. AMHF explains, “Avila will have better facial aesthetics and better quality of life.”
“My daughter has come a long way and I will be happy to see her without the excess tissue on her nose," Avila's mother shares. "Normal facial appearance will boost her self-confidence as a teenager and an adult as well."