Joyce is a sweet 5-year-old girl from Kenya. Joyce’s father lost his first wife, leaving him with seven children from their marriage to care for. He later remarried Joyce’s mother, and together they have five children, so Joyce’s full family consists of her mother, father, and eleven siblings. The two oldest children have moved out and started their own families. Joyce’s parents take on various work, like working on their neighbors’ farms, to provide for their family. However, they shared that their earnings are barely enough to provide food for the family, and they also receive some support from well-wishers.
Joyce has been diagnosed with hydrocephalus, a condition in which excess cerebrospinal fluid accumulates in the brain and increases intracranial pressure. As a result of her condition, Joyce has been experiencing severe headaches accompanied by loss of speech and inability to walk over the last three weeks. Without treatment, Joyce will experience severe physical and developmental delays.
On October 27th, Joyce will undergo surgery to drain the excess fluid from her brain, thus reducing the intracranial pressure and significantly improving her quality of life. With proper treatment, Joyce will develop into a strong, healthy young girl. Our medical partner, African Mission Healthcare (AMH), is requesting $720 to cover the surgery cost.
Joyce’s mother said, “I am worried for my daughter’s health. I want her to be treated and go back to her good health again.”
