This is Esther, a one-month-old girl from Kenya. She was born via caesarean section after a scan revealed that her head was abnormally big and normal delivery would not be an option.
Esther’s parents took her to a neurosurgeon, and there she was diagnosed with hydrocephalus, a disorder where extra cerebrospinal fluid accumulates in the cranium. This condition could become painful for Esther as the liquid presses against her brain. And if untreated, the long-term consequences could be severe.
To avoid these outcomes, Esther needs to have a shunt surgically implanted in her brain. The shunt will help drain the fluid away from her head so that the swelling subsides.
Esther’s parents were relieved to hear that their child has a good chance of survival if she undergoes this procedure—but they cannot afford it. Esther’s mother is a stay-at-home mom, and Esther’s father has just founded a research business that is financially struggling. With the little savings they had, Esther’s family have managed to raise $52, but this falls short of the funds required. “I am in a financial crisis and would appreciate anyone who contributes to Esther’s treatment,” Esther’s father says.
For $615, we can make up the differential that lies between Esther’s family and the operation their baby needs. This funding will also cover the medications, lab tests, and five-day hospital stay that will accompany Esther’s surgery.
Let’s help Esther’s family make it through their financial straits so that their one-month-old can grow into a healthy and strong little girl.
