Meet Ian, a baby boy from Malawi. According to our medical partner, World Altering Medicine (WAM), “Ian is second born child in a family of four.” Although he is at an important age of early childhood development, Ian currently faces growth complications due to congenital hydrocephalus.
Hydrocephalus is a rare condition in which cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) builds up in the brain, creating a blockage. As this fluid accumulates, intracranial pressure increases, and the brain begins to swell.
If left untreated, this condition can contribute to long-term health complications–typically causing vision problems and brain damage in its congenital form. At this point, WAM states, “Ian has an enlarged head and difficulties with feeding.”
While they are supportive, Ian’s family is dependent on his father’s modest income earned as an electrician, which is not enough to cover the cost of Ian’s treatment.
With $992, Ian will receive surgery to drain the excess CSF from his brain. The procedure–an endoscopic third ventriculostomy–will naturally remove the fluid blockage, therefore reducing the pressure in Ian’s brain. To support his recovery, Ian will also receive seven days of hospital care.
Ian’s mother shares, “I am so excited for the surgery. I hope my child can get well and lead a normal life.”
