Regina is a 15-year-old girl from Tanzania. She is the 22nd child in a family of 28 children. Her father is a pastoralist with three wives. Her family depends on livestock keeping and farming for their sustenance. They live a modest traditional life with milk and meat as their common meal.
Regina was diagnosed with bilateral genu valgus. Her legs bow inwards, causing her to be knock-kneed. Several factors could cause this condition, such as growth disorders, vitamin deficiencies, or excessive fluoride found in contaminated drinking water. As a result, the knees can be angled inwards or outwards, making it difficult to walk and may cause long-term joint damage. She was brought to the center by her mother and uncle after years of struggling with the bowing of both legs. Growing up in a large household, Regina has learned resilience and patience. However, her condition has made walking long distances painful and difficult, affecting her daily life and independence.
Our medical partner, African Mission Healthcare, is requesting $777 to fund treatment for Regina. The procedure is scheduled to take place on January 21st at our medical partner’s care center, Kafika House. Treatment will hopefully restore Regina’s mobility, allow her to participate in a variety of activities, and greatly decrease her risk of future complications.
Regina says, “Sometimes my friends laugh at how I walk, and they say I slow them down. I really wish for this would change.”

