Chala is a 16-year-old young man from Ethiopia. He comes from a family of 7, with a hardworking father, and his mother who takes care of their home.
Six years ago, Chala started experiencing troubling symptoms including pain, swelling, bone issues and drainage. The painful condition has kept him from attending school and in engaging in physical activities, and his family struggles to afford his medical care. Despite his health challenges, Chala holds onto hope. He dreams of getting back to school so he can help his family and community.
Following a review at our medical partner’s care center, Saglan Wajee General Hospital, Chala was diagnosed with chronic osteomyelitis in his right leg, a persistent bone infection. Doctors have recommended that he undergo a sequestrectomy, a surgical procedure involving the removal of fragments of infected, dead bone or tissue. If not treated, it can lead to recurrent infections that may result in life-threatening complications.
Fortunately, on September 10th, Chalo will undergo repair surgery at our medical partner’s care center. His family is requesting $900 to fund the surgery, which once completed, will alleviate his symptoms and prevent serious long-term complications.
Chala says: “I hope that the surgery will help me move around better, and improve my health so that I can continue with my studies and support my family”