Temesgen is a cheerful boy from Ethiopia. He spends most of his time outside, enjoying the company of other children. He has two older siblings. His parents are farmers who rent land to cultivate crops, sharing the harvest with the landowner. In addition to farming, his father takes on daily agricultural work for neighbors in need. The family also raises farm animals. They had two oxen but sold one to afford transportation to Addis Ababa for Temesgen’s medical treatment.
Temesgen underwent a colostomy, in which the end of the colon is brought through an opening in the abdominal wall. This surgery is often performed to bypass bowel malformations, but colostomies are usually temporary and may call for closure. In Temesgen’s case, his colostomy requires closure in order to restore bowel function and prevent future complications.
Our medical partner, African Mission Healthcare, is requesting $1,009 to cover the cost of a colostomy closure for Temesgen. The surgery is scheduled to take place on January 30th and, once completed, will hopefully allow him to live more comfortably and confidently.
Temesgen’s mother shared, “I hope my child will get the necessary treatment. And I hope he will heal. I will be grateful if I see that happen.”

