Given is a four-year-old boy from Tanzania. He is the second-born in a family of three children and lives with his parents, who rely on farming to meet their daily needs. Given is an active and playful child who enjoys being outdoors, but his ability to move freely has been compromised.
Given was diagnosed with bilateral genu varus, a condition that causes his legs to bow outward. 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. The condition has made walking difficult and sometimes painful for young Given, limiting his ability to keep up with other children. As he grows, the condition continues to affect his mobility and could impact his future independence if left untreated.
Our medical partner, African Mission Healthcare, is requesting $810 to fund treatment for Given. The procedure is scheduled to take place on April 14th at our medical partner’s care center, Kafika House. Treatment will hopefully restore Given’s mobility, allow him to participate in a variety of activities, and greatly decrease his risk of future complications.
Given’s father says, “He struggles to walk properly and cannot keep up with other children when playing.”

