When twenty-two-month-old Bakari was born in Tanzania, everyone thought he was a normal baby. However, after some time, his parents began to notice that his head was increasing in size at an unusual rate.
Our medical partner, African Mission Healthcare Foundation (AMHF), tell us that Bakari was diagnosed with hydrocephalus, a condition in which cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) builds up in the brain, resulting in swelling.
“Bakari’s head [has] continued to increase in size, unfortunately he cannot sit and neither can he see. Bakari needs an operation to prevent further brain damage,” reveals AMHF.
Bakari needs hydrocephalus repair surgery. During surgery, the excess CSF in his brain will be drained, and the outer membranes surrounding his brain will be repaired. Treatment will cost $775, which covers surgical and medical expenses, as well as five days in the hospital and two weeks at a physical rehabilitation center.
“[Bakari] is the third born in the family. [He] is being raised by his grandma after his mother died of sudden death last year,” shares AMHF. The income his grandparents have, as farmers, is not enough to afford Bakari’s treatment, and provide for their six children and other grandchildren.
“If only my grandson could get well and have the ability to stand and walk, I would be very happy,” says Bakari’s grandma.