Godifrey is a three-year-old boy from Tanzania. He lives with his mother and grandparents on their small farm.
When Godifrey was two, he had a case of spinal meningitis—a rare inflammation of the membranes covering the brain and the spinal cord. This inflammation blocked the fluid passage in the brain, causing fluid to build up around his brain. This condition is called hydrocephalus, and it currently causes Godifrey great discomfort, with symptoms such as vomiting and fever.
“I hope my son gets better soon so that he goes to school and hopefully studies to become a doctor,” Godifrey’s mother says.
Our medical partner, African Mission Healthcare Foundation, is requesting $728 to fund Godifrey’s surgery. He is scheduled to receive treatment on April 19 at our medical partner’s care center, Arusha Lutheran Medical Centre. Doctors will insert a shunt in his cranium, allowing excess fluid to drain out and releasing the pressure on his brain. After his operation, Godifrey should be able to develop normally, living free from hydrocephalus and its symptoms.