Introduction

In May 2022, we received Mariam of 8yrs in the worst painful condition and we registered her in our care. Mariam was born with a condition called Spina Bifida, a congenital malformation of the spinal cord. This affects the vascular supply to the lower limbs, causing fluid retention that creates those deep wounds/ ulcers for drainage.

For the last 8 years of her life, Mariam’s mother did not know the exact diagnosis for her child, and this is made it so hard to understand her pain and take better care of her.

Mariam at St. Jude

Mariam came in with a deep ulcer on her left foot and her Mom informed us that they had done everything but the wound wont heal. We took Mariam to the care facility where all children in our care receive first line treatment. Upon examination, the doctors diagnosed Mariam with Spina Bifida and they explained to her parents how the disease affects humans like Mariam and how to take care of them. The doctors properly cleaned the wound and prescribed some medicine to help start the healing process.

After Care

Mariam received treatment for her wound and we saw a smile on her face for the first time. We also provided her with food and bedding items so she can stay healthy and live well. We are working on making sure she can stay in school too.