Florence is a lively two-year-old boy from Tanzania who loves to grab everything he sets his eyes on. His mother was a storekeeper at a wholesale store, but after giving birth to Florence she quit her job to give him the extra care he needs. Florence’s father is a self-employed electrician who works diligently every day to support his wife and son.
As you can see in the photo, Florence has a nasal encephalocele, which is a growing mass on his nose. Our medical partner, African Mission Healthcare Foundation reports that “if not treated, the mass may block his air passageway or it may burst. This could cause numerous severe health problems.” Although Florence’s father is working hard to provide for his family, he needs our help to give Florence the help he needs.
“My son is growing well,” Florence’s mom says, “but the mass between his eyes worries me because it keeps growing bigger. He is our only boy and we would like for him to grow up like other children and later on be able to go to school and become independent.”
For $850, Florence will receive grafting and a nasal bridge reconstruction, which will reduce the risk his mass will burst, improve his appearance, and ensure he can continue to breath safely. Let’s give Florence the opportunity to have a happy, healthy childhood!
