Dotto is a cheerful 14-year-old boy from Tanzania. He has a twin brother named Kurwa, a name that is quite common in their culture for twins. It’s typical for the firstborn twin to be called Kurwa and the second one Dotto. His family comes from a farming community where most people rely on agriculture for their livelihood. His parents grow maize and vegetables for their family’s consumption and sell a small portion of their harvest to purchase other necessities. Doto’s father also takes on casual labor jobs to supplement the family’s income.
Dotto was diagnosed with Left Genu Varus, a condition in which his legs bow outward so that his knees do not touch. 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.
Our medical partner, African Mission Healthcare, is helping Dotto receive treatment. He is scheduled to undergo reconstructive surgery on December 3rd, which will hopefully restore his mobility, allowing him to participate in a variety of activities, and greatly decrease his risk of future complications. Now, Dotto’s family needs help to fund this $695 procedure.
Doto says: “Thank you so much for helping me with my treatment, I hope I will be able to get treatment to fully correct my leg.”
