Athumani is a newborn from Tanzania. He is the second-born of twins. Soon after his birth, Athumani’s mother noticed that her son had an abnormal back. After visiting a government hospital, she was referred to a Watsi medical partner hospital, Arusha Lutheran Medical Centre (ALMC). There, she learned that Athumani has myelomeningocele and hydrocephalus.
Essentially, part of Athumani’s back did not develop properly, and his spinal cord was exposed. He was at risk of infections or spinal cord damage. He needed surgery to repair his back.
ALMC doctors began treating Athumani on October 17, 2016. His treatment plan includes a myelomeningocele and hydrocephalus repair to restore spine function and prevent further infection.
Unfortunately, Athumani’s parents have no means to pay for this treatment. They are farmers who plant maize and beans. They need help to cover his $1,200 treatment, which includes Athumani’s surgery, hospital stay, and medications.