Brianna is a 6-month-old baby girl and the last born child to her single mother of two. Brianna was born a healthy, beautiful baby and experienced normal growth until she turned four months old. Brianna’s mother used to work at a salon as a hair dresser, but has been unable to return to work since Brianna was born. Their family depends mostly on relatives’ support to be able to make ends meet.
Brianna has been diagnosed with hydrocephalus, a condition in which excess cerebrospinal fluid accumulates in the brain and increases intracranial pressure. As a result of her condition, Brianna has been experiencing regular fever and vomits every time she is breastfed. Her mother says at first she was concerned with how fast her head was growing because she outgrew her baby caps within a short period of time. Without treatment, Brianna will experience severe physical and developmental delays.
Our medical partner, African Mission Healthcare Foundation, is requesting $765 to cover the cost of a follow-up surgery for Brianna that will help to treat her hydrocephalus. The procedure is scheduled to take place on July 8th and will drain the excess fluid from Brianna’s brain. This will reduce intracranial pressure and greatly improve her quality of life. With proper treatment, Brianna will hopefully develop into a strong, healthy young girl.
Brianna’s mother shared, “My baby was getting better after the surgery, but she is currently crying a lot and her head size is still increasing. Please help my baby have another surgery. I cannot afford it and neither can my family members. Thank you for your support.”