Upendo is a 13-year-old student from Tanzania. Her name means love in Swahili. She lives with her parents and is the fourth of nine children in her family. Her mother works as a farmer, and her father as a carpenter, to support their family. True to the meaning of her name, Upendo is a very warm and loving girl. She enjoys school and hopes to become a nurse one day.
Upendo was born with clubfoot on her right leg. Her condition makes it difficult for her to walk. Hearing about our medical partner’s care center, Arusha Lutheran Medical Centre (ALMC), from a neighbor, she decided to seek treatment.
On August 4, Upendo will begin treatment for her clubfoot at ALMC. Our medical partner, African Mission Healthcare Foundation, is asking for $890 to cover the cost of her treatment, including surgery and cast fees.
“After treatment, I will be glad to be able to walk without pain,” says Upendo.