Baraka is a three-week-old boy from Tanzania who loves to suckle. He is one of six children. Baraka’s parents are subsistence farmers who work hard to try and provide for their large family.
Baraka was born with spina bifida, an opening in his lower back extending through his spine. If not treated, it can cause spinal cord damage and lead to recurrent infections. After his diagnosis at birth, Baraka was unable to receive treatment at a local hospital because they were unequipped to provide the necessary treatment. When he began experiencing fevers due to infections, relatives chipped in to help cover the costs of his travel to a care center ten hours away.
On April 24, surgeons will perform a spina bifida repair procedure to close the opening in Baraka’s back. After treatment, little Baraka will be healthier and will no longer experience dangerous recurrent infections. Our medical partner, African Mission Healthcare Foundation, is requesting $1,369 to cover Baraka’s treatment.
Baraka’s mother is very grateful to those supporting Baraka’s care, saying, “Thank you so much for the help you will give to my son. May God bless you all.”