Ronaldo is a three-year-old boy from Tanzania. He is the youngest of seven children. Ronaldo is a cheerful and energetic kid who loves playing and having fun with those around him. His father works as a casual laborer to support the family.
Ronaldo was diagnosed with bilateral genu valgum, a condition that causes his legs to angle inward at the knees. Several factors can cause this condition, such as growth disorders, vitamin deficiencies, or excessive fluoride found in contaminated drinking water. As a result, the knees can be angled inwards or outwards, making it difficult to walk and may cause long-term joint damage. As Ronaldo has grown, his parents have become increasingly concerned about how the condition may affect his ability to walk comfortably and participate fully in daily activities. They also worry about the challenges he may face when he starts school in the future. Ronaldo’s family is seeking care in the hopes that undergoing treatment will give Ronaldo the best possible start in life and allow him to grow, play, and attend school without difficulty.
Our medical partner, African Mission Healthcare (AMH), is helping Ronaldo undergo treatment on June 2nd. This treatment will restore Ronaldo’s mobility, allow him to participate in a variety of activities, and greatly decrease his risk of future complications. AMH is requesting $777 to fund his surgery.
Ronaldo’s mother said, “We want Ronaldo to grow up strong, walk comfortably, and one day go to school like his brothers and sisters.”
