Binyam is a seven-month-old baby boy from Ethiopia. He loves watching animations and listening to songs. He lives with his parents in a small, rented home. Although his family’s income is limited, their love and determination are strong. His father works as a daily laborer and provides for the household. His mother, however, does not have a permanent job. During the holidays, she sells candles around the church to support the family.
Before Binyam was born, his mother had a difficult motherhood journey. She suffered two miscarriages, and a third pregnancy that ended tragically when the baby died after one week. At some point, she lost hope that she would ever have a child. When she discovered that she was pregnant again and gave birth to Binyam, the entire family felt immense joy and relief.
Since birth, Binyam has had an umbilical hernia, which is a tissue bulge in the belly button area, that occurs due to a weak spot in the abdominal wall. The condition has been causing him discomfort especially when he cries, or plays actively. His mother first noticed the swelling when Binyam’s umbilical cord fell off. At first, she hoped it would resolve naturally, but the swelling continued to grow and increase in size. Worried, she shared with a nurse during a routine vaccine clinic and was referred to a higher-level hospital.
Our medical partner, African Mission Healthcare, is helping Binyam receive treatment. On July 20th, he will undergo hernia repair surgery to relieve his symptoms, allowing him a healthier life as he grows older. Now, Binyam’s family needs help to fund this $512 procedure.
Binyam’s mother says, “Thank you very much for the service and support. Finally, my prayers have been answered. I truly wish and pray that my child will be safe and recover well after the surgery.”