John is a 2-month-old baby from Tanzania. He resides in a modest home with his parents and two siblings. His mother is a devoted stay-at-home mother, while his father works as a carpenter. His father’s income is enough to cover the family’s basic needs.
After John’s birth, the doctors realized he was born with a congenital condition and advised his mother to seek specialized care. His right foot was twisted inward and downward. They started him on casting at the hospital for three weeks, hoping it might help him heal. However, it became apparent that his condition was more complex and would require surgical intervention as the only viable option to give John a chance at a more mobile and fulfilling life. However, the financial burden proved to be overwhelming for John’s family. Living on a modest income, they could not afford the surgical treatment cost. They had to make a hard decision to stop their son’s treatment.
Sometime after discontinuing their son’s treatment, John’s mother learned about our medical partner the Plaster House and the services it provides. Fueled by love and hope for her son, she sought assistance from the center. John underwent a comprehensive wellness assessment; however, the family cannot raise money for his treatment and is appealing for financial assistance.
John has clubfoot on his right foot. Clubfoot is a condition in which the foot is twisted out of shape. This causes difficulty walking and even wearing shoes.
The Plaster House team will begin clubfoot treatment on September 19. Our medical partner, African Mission Healthcare, is requesting $935 to fund John’s clubfoot repair. After treatment and as he grows he will be able to walk comfortably, wear shoes, enjoy playtime with his peers, and reassure his parents that their son is free from disability.
John’s mother says: “I hope my son’s treatment will be smooth and he will turn out okay after his treatment.”
