Joel is a cheerful-eight-year boy who lives in Kenya with his mother and four siblings. His mother is separated from her husband and has been taking on casual jobs to support her children. Yet, despite the financial challenges, Joel’s mother continues to fight for her son to receive the medical treatment that he needs.
Soon after Joel was born, his mother noticed that both of his testicles were undescended. She pointed this out to her doctors and was told to wait to see if the condition would resolve. Though full of questions and worry, she decided to do as the doctors advised.
Over the years, she repeatedly took Joel to clinics but was only given medication and told to wait longer. Finally, tired of waiting and determined to find help for her son, Joel’s mother travelled to a larger, more specialized hospital, where Joel underwent surgery.
Unfortunately, Joel’s condition relapsed, and his mother could not afford surgery again. If left untreated, Joel has an increased risk of developing hernias, testicular cancer, and fertility problems in the future.
Fortunately, Joel’s mother learned about our medical partner’s care center, BethanyKids Kijabe Hospital, where he is scheduled for surgery on October 5th. Our medical partner, African Mission Healthcare, is requesting $470 to cover the total cost of his procedure and care.
Joel’s mother shares, “I have carried this hope for years: that Joel can get the care he needs and live a healthier, more confident life. I’m grateful that BethanyKids helped us take this next step.”
