This is Felix, a two-month-old boy from Kenya. At birth, Felix was diagnosed with spina bifida. Our medical partner, African Mission Healthcare Foundation (AMHF), tells us this condition causes “a mass swelling on the lower backbone area. If he is not treated, Felix is at a risk of developing a tethered cord that can lead to scolisis or kyphosis.”
Felix’s father is a construction site laborer often depending on availability of work while his mother used to be a casual laborer washing clothes for pay but since she delivered Felix, she has not been able to work. With these financial restraints, Felix’s family struggles to afford the treatment Felix requires for his congenital spina bifida.
With $805, a surgeon will perform a procedure where a shunt will be implanted in his abdomen, allowing fluid to be drained from Felix’s body with little to no harm. The funds will also cover medications as well as physical and behavioral therapy. After this surgery, AMHF asserts that “Felix will have reduced risk of infection, developing tethered cord, or paralysis on his lower limbs.”
Felix’s mother shares, “I want my child to be well and lead a comfortable life.” With our help, Felix will receive the treatment that he needs to get healthy.
