Rayvan is a three-year-old boy from Tanzania and the middle child in his family of three. His parents practice small-scale farming, growing primarily maize and cassava, to meet their family’s needs.
Rayvan was diagnosed with bilateral genu varus. Shortly after he started walking, his legs began bowing. 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. For Rayvan, this condition has made him less active and affected his confidence.
On January 16th, Rayvan will undergo surgery at our medical partner’s care center, Kafika House. This treatment will restore his mobility, allow him to participate in a variety of activities, and greatly decrease his risk of future complications. Our medical partner, African Mission Healthcare, is requesting $777 to fund Rayvan’s treatment.
Rayan’s mother said, “I hope that one day Rayvan won’t even remember that he had this conditon making it hard for him to walk properly.”

