Raphael is a one-year-old boy from Tanzania. He is the second child in a family of two children, and is an active and jovial boy.
In April 2020, Raphael was involved in a fire accident. He had learnt how to crawl, and his mother had left him in the hut playing. While she prepared lunch for her children, Raphael crawled out of the hut and approached the charcoal stove where she was, trying to hold the stove so that he could support himself and stand. He burned himself on his left hand and now cannot hold anything. Some of his fingers have been deformed by burn scar contractures, which tightened the joints on his left fingers. Initially, Raphael’s wounds were treated at home using traditional medication. They have since healed, though he cannot straighten his fingers on his right hand to hold things.
Raphael’s parents decided to seek treatment for him and brought him to ALMC Hospital. Raphael now needs to have his fingers released to help him hold things easily. Unfortunately, this procedure is costly for Raphael and his family. His parents are farmers who grow maize and beans to make ends meet. They often sell the surplus to generate income, but it is not enough to fund the planned surgery. Raphael and his family appeal for financial support.
Fortunately, our medical partner, African Mission Healthcare Foundation, is helping Raphael receive treatment. On December 11th, surgeons at their care center will perform a burn contracture release surgery so that he will be able to utilize his fingers easily. Now, Raphael needs help to fund this $874 procedure.
Raphael’s mother shared, “It won’t be good for our son to grow up not being able to use his left hand. We would like him to be treated but we cannot afford his treatment cost. Please help our son.”