Irene is a 12-year-old girl from Tanzania and a member of a big family of eight. Her father works long days and nights as a security guard to help provide for his family. Irene’s mother stays at home to take care of her six children. Irene currently goes to a nearby government school and enjoys learning.
At birth, Irene was diagnosed with a palatal tumor, a growth on the roof of her mouth. Throughout her life, it has continued to swell. Since the tumor is near to her front teeth, it is slowly pushing Irene’s teeth out of place. This makes it difficult for her to eat. Without treatment, the mass could continue to grow and impact her breathing as well.
Because their family is so large and only has a small income, Irene’s parents need financial help for Irene’s treatment. Irene is scheduled to undergo a mass excision procedure on February 2. Our medical partner, African Mission Healthcare Foundation, is looking for $920 to pay for the surgery and hospital stay while Irene recovers.
After the surgery, Irene will be able to eat normally. and her quality of her life will improve greatly.
Her mother says, “I hope that after surgery that she will have no lasting damage and be able to live life happily.”