Oltumo is a nine-year-old boy from Tanzania and the third of five children. He is currently in first grade, and his parents are livestock keepers who depend entirely on their animals to support the family’s daily needs.
Oltumo was born with clubfoot affecting his left foot. Since birth, the condition has made it difficult for him to walk comfortably, play with other children, and keep up with his classmates at school. As he grows, the condition continues to limit his mobility and independence.
To correct the condition, Oltumo will undergo a series of corrective casts followed by an Achilles tendon lengthening procedure and the use of a night brace to maintain the correction. Clubfoot is a congenital condition in which the foot is twisted inward because the tendons and other soft tissues are tighter and shorter than normal. Without treatment, it can make walking painful and wearing shoes difficult.
Fortunately, Oltumo’s family traveled to visit our medical partner’s care center, Kafika House, where his treatment will begin on June 25th. Our medical partner, African Mission Healthcare, is requesting $1,119 to fund Oltumo’s clubfoot repair. After treatment, Oltumo has a strong chance of walking confidently and gaining greater independence.
Oltumo’s father shared, “With the right treatment, Oltumo can take confident steps toward a brighter and more independent future where he can walk without complaining of pain.”
