Mohamed is a seven-year-old child living in Tanzania with his parents and four siblings. His mother is a home maker, and his father sells some vegetables and fruits at an open market near their three-bedroom mud house. Mohamed likes to interact with other children. He enjoys playing with cars, throwing balls, and learning how to read and write.
Mohamed was born with congenital contracture of the knees, and for years he could not walk at all. His mother used to massage his legs with oil, trying to stretch his knees, but it did not help. Three years ago, Mohamed started guided manipulation and casting of his legs, which showed great improvement. He also continued his recommended exercises daily and using calipers.
Today, Mohamed is able to walk with his crutches. His orthopedic surgeon believes that, at this point, contracture release will further help straighten Mohamed’s knees and give him the ability to walk without support. Mohamed is eager to walk without crutches, as this will enable him to go to school.
Our medical partner, African Mission Healthcare Foundation, tells us that for $550, Mohamed can have the single contracture release procedure he needs. The total cost covers the procedure, supplies, medications, casting, and three days of inpatient care. Mohamed’s parents work hard to care for their children, but need financial support to cover this cost.
Mohamed is expected to be able to walk without crutches following full recovery from his surgery. He dreams of becoming a nurse, and looks forward to attending school and helping his mother around the house. He tells us that he wants to become a nurse so he can help his little sister, who often has epistaxis, also known as “bloody nose.”
