GVN News

3:17pm 24 August 2006  
Filed under: Articles, Fundraising, GVN, Programs, Tanzania

Gwen Jones, a past volunteer on our Tanzania program, certainly had an unplanned experience during her volunteer placement. While volunteering at a class for children with special needs at Kawe School in North Dar Es Salaam, she met a six year old girl named Tatu Shabani. As Gwen watched the children play, she noticed that Tatu would fall face down in the mud every time she attempted to run with the others Tatu suffers from Bilateral Club Feet, a condition where both feet turn inwards. Although Tatu has learned to walk on the outside of her inwardly rotated feet, as her body grows her poorly developed feet will no longer be able to cope with her body weight. The hospitals Gwen visited in Tanzania had three child patients to each bed; due to this lack of resources and overcrowding, any operations Tatu had in Tanzania would likely be unsuccessful, similar to the foot operation Tatu had as a baby which failed to correct the problem.

Gwen wanted to help Tatu, but she saw the difficulties of seeking treatment within Tanzania. Determined not to give up, she contacted hospitals abroad to see if there was anything they could do to help. Eventually a charity called the Children’s First Foundation, based in Melbourne, Australia reviewed Tatu’s situation and announced they could fly her to Australia in January 2007 to operate on her feet. Tatu will stay at a children’s home in Collingwood and will have surgery in a private hospital. This operation is expensive, which is why we are putting out a desperate appeal for your help. We need to raise a total of $5000 in order to cover Tatu’s medical bills, clothing adjustments, travel, and school fees once the operation is complete. Any money left over will assist another disadvantaged child to receive the necessary health care they are unable to get at home. Together, we can make a huge difference so that Tatu’s future is bright.

UPDATE: After the last newsletter, over US$600 was raised for Tatu. Thanks to all of you who donated, your contributions will help make Tatu’s treatment possible! We are still working to raise the rest of the money necessary for Tatu’s medical expenses, etc. that are not covered by the Children’s First Foundation. If you would like to make a donation, please follow the links below for further information on Tatu and how to donate.

> Donate to Tatu
> Tatu Shabani Article