“My wish is to see my baby sister able to walk properly like the rest of us, so that when she gets an opportunity to go to school she will not be limited by the condition of her legs,” shares Paulina’s brother.
Paulina is a quiet, three-year-old girl who likes to play with her dolls and hum songs. The fourth of five children, Paulina lives with her parents and siblings in Tanzania. After her father experienced some mental health issues, Paulina’s oldest brother had to step in and support the family by working as a guard at the local school. The wages he earns provide for the family’s necessities, but the family cannot afford medical treatment for conditions like Paulina’s bilateral genu valgus.
“Paulina knocks her knees when walking, causing her to feel pain and failing to walk or run as fast as she wishes,” explain our medical partners at African Mission Healthcare Foundation. “If not treated, Paulina will be at high risk of developing osteoarthritis of the knees at an early age.”
For $940 we can fund proper corrective treatment and follow-up care for Paulina’s legs, which will help to improve her gait and decrease the risk of developing osteoarthritis in her knees. Let’s help Paulina enjoy an active childhood and make her brother’s wishes for Paulina to have a school experience free from physical limitations come true!