Poni is a 13-year-old orphan, who lives with her aunt, and six other children, in a refugee camp in Uganda. They were all forced to leave South Sudan because of the war there.
Five years ago, Poni developed a sudden headache, that caused paralysis of her lower limbs. At a clinic, she was diagnosed with malaria, and given medications. The medications didn’t help, but Poni’s aunt never brought her back to the clinic.
For six years, Poni was unable to walk. However, when she turned seven, she started walking, only for the family to discover that she was severely knock kneed. She has trouble walking the long distance to her school, and often misses classes. Poni also struggles with a persistent cough.
Poni’s aunt took the initiative to bring her to hospital and after a physiotherapy assessment, they were advised to have Poni evaluated by a surgeon.
Poni has been diagnosed with genu valgum - or knock knees - a condition where knees angle inward and touch each other, while her ankles remain apart. Several factors could cause this condition, such as growth disorders, vitamin deficiencies, or excessive fluoride found in contaminated drinking water. This condition may cause long-term joint damage if left untreated. While mild cases in children often resolve naturally, persistent or severe knock knees in adolescents and adults may lead to pain, arthritis, and psychological effects.
Our medical partner, Hope Health Action, is requesting $1,072 to fund treatment for Poni. The procedure is scheduled to take place on April 29th at St. Mary’s Hospital Lacor. Treatment will hopefully restore Poni’s mobility, enabling her to participate in a variety of activities, and greatly decreasing her risk of future complications.
Poni’s aunt says: “I give thanks to the donors for supporting my niece’s treatment. Without you, we would not have managed medical bills for Poni’s care.”
Poni says: “I am happy that after the operation, I will not miss school, because I will not have difficulties in walking.”