Fanizo is a 29-year-old soybean farmer who began developing cysts on both hands four years ago, which stopped him from being able to work properly. He went to traditional healers twice, but the medicine was not suitable for his condition. He heard about the surgical program at Kabudula from Ndaula Health Center. He lives five hours away from Kabudula but was supported with free transportation provided by AHA, riding an ambulance round trip between Ndaula and Kabudula. Fanizo lives in a grass-thatched home and his household owns no vehicles, bicycles, or animals (which are sometimes sold for transportation money in Malawi when a family member needs to go to the hospital). At his home, firewood is used for cooking and water is collected from a nearby borehole. Poverty is the greatest challenge in his community. A health worker has visited his community several times for COVID vaccinations, WaterGuard distribution (drops added to water to make it safe for drinking), and vitamin distributions.
“People live in the poverty state – many NGOs should come to help.”
Author’s note: Fanizo was treated at AHA’s June 2022 surgical camp. To donate in support of Fanizo and patients like him, please click here. Zikomo.