25-year-old Kristine has a happy and outgoing personality. She lives in the Philippines with her mother, and she is loved by her family and fellow church members. She also loves to sing and dance with the other children in their church and community. If the church has an activity, she eagerly offers herself to help with any chores in the activity area.
Kristine was born with congenital clubfoot, a condition that impacts her gait.
Our medical partner, International Care Ministries (ICM), explains: “Kristine has difficulty in walking because of her left foot deformity. She also has seizure disorder but it is currently managed with medication. Her mother said that she was frequently teased by her classmates when she was still in elementary school because of the way she walked. Since then, she has not joined school; and everyday, she wishes that she could go back even in her age.”
Treatment for Kristine will cost $1,211, and consists of a surgery to correct her deformity give her a balanced gait, as well as boost her self esteem. It will also fulfill her wishes to go back to school if time and situation permits.
Kristine’s family was unable to have Kristine undergo surgery earlier because of lack of finances.
At their pre-operative interview with ICM, Kristine’s mother shared: “I really hope that my child can get treatment. We want to see her well and live normally, but we could not make it happen. She even stopped schooling to avoid bullies because we don’t want to see her have emotional pains. We are praying that there could be someone that could help her.”
