In the quiet village of Takajjunge, nestled in Namubiru Parish, Mukono District, lives a brave twelve-year-old girl named Leticia. As the second of four children, Leticia’s childhood was marred by a condition known as Genu Varum, or bowed legs. From birth, this condition made her life a daily struggle. Simple joys like walking, standing for extended periods, or playing with her friends were sources of pain and difficulty.
Her parents, despite their best efforts, were unable to afford the specialized medical care Leticia desperately needed. Financial constraints loomed large over their heads, turning their attempts to seek treatment into futile endeavors. Leticia’s mother, a resilient single parent, faced the heart-wrenching reality of seeing her daughter in pain every day. “It broke my heart to watch her struggle,” she recalls. “I felt so helpless, knowing I couldn’t give her the care she needed.”
The situation grew increasingly dire, and it seemed as though Leticia would never have the chance to lead a normal, pain-free life. But hope arrived when a compassionate member of SSHJM Children in Need’s (CHIN) Village Health Team (VHT) identified Leticia’s condition. Recognizing the urgency of her situation, they referred her to CHIN. Leticia’s mother, filled with anxiety about the costs involved, was also fueled by a fierce determination to see her daughter healthy. “I knew I had to try, no matter what,” she says. “The thought of seeing her well was the only thing that kept me going.”
Leticia’s journey to recovery began at CoRSU Hospital, where she was diagnosed with Blount disease. This condition, resulting from abnormal growth of the shinbone’s upper part, had caused her legs to bow. It explained the difficulties she faced every day. However, there was hope. With the generous funding from NLW, Leticia was able to undergo the much-needed surgery to correct her legs.
The transformation was nothing short of miraculous. Today, Leticia stands tall and walks with confidence. She can run and play with her friends without the shadow of pain or the need for support. Her mother’s words reflect the profound gratitude and joy they feel: “I truly appreciate SSHJM-CHIN and CoRSU Hospital for transforming my daughter’s life. Watching her run and play, free from pain, is a dream come true.”
Thanks to the unwavering support of our donors, vulnerable children like Leticia receive the gift of subsidized treatment at CoRSU. This support enables them to reclaim their childhoods and look forward to a brighter, healthier future.
Leticia’s mother often reflects on their journey, recalling the hopelessness she felt when faced with unaffordable surgery quotes from various hospitals. “I remember crying at night, feeling so defeated,” she shares. “But then, CHIN gave us hope. They gave us a miracle.” The comprehensive care and zero-cost services provided by SSHJM CHIN were a beacon of hope. She cherishes CHIN deeply and prays for its continued success, hoping that more children with disabilities can receive the life-changing support they need. “I will forever be grateful,” she says, her voice filled with emotion. “I pray that CHIN continues to help more families like ours.”
This project is supported by: Naechstenliebe Weltweit (NLW)/ Charity Worldwide, SSHJM Development thanks them dearly.