Masanja is an 11-year-old boy from Kitavi, Tanzania. His parents are farmers, working to provide for their family’s subsistence needs.
Masanja was born with clubfeet - a birth abnormality in which his feet are twisted out of shape or position. The tissues connecting the muscles to the bone (tendons) are shorter than usual, causing the feet to twist and making walking and wearing shoes difficult.
The nearest hospital could not provide the treatment he needed, and Masanja has a difficult time walking. Because of this, Masanja made the difficult decision to leave school temporarily as it is far from home. He now is responsible for the grazing of his father’s cows.
Masanja hopes to return to school. His parents, while supportive of Masanja’s dreams, cannot afford the medical treatment necessary to allow Masanja mobility. Masanja’s father learned that services would be available at the Plaster House, a care center of our medical partner, African Mission Healthcare (AMH). Upon Masanja’s arrival at the center, he received a warm welcome and an initial assessment. A treatment plan was developed.
The medical team will begin clubfoot treatment on September 15. AMH is requesting $935 to fund Masanja’s clubfoot repair. After treatment, his mobility will be restored, and he will be able to resume school.
Masanja says: “I want to be able to walk without discomfort. My leg has been causing me pain for a while.”