Faruk’s Story

Faruk Mohammed, a 19-month-old boy from Goma, Agaro Jimma in Ethiopia’s Oromia region, was born into a world of fear and uncertainty. As the third child in his family, his birth brought joy, but the swelling on his back at birth quickly turned that joy into concern.

At just 14 days old, Faruk underwent surgery to repair a severe birth defect. His mother recalls the days leading up to the operation with pain and despair:
“I wished for death for both myself and my baby. I felt alone, not just from the people around me but even from God.”

Despite the successful surgery, Faruk’s struggles continued. His head began to enlarge, and he suffered from weakness and vomiting. With the help of donations from their mosque, his family returned to the hospital, where he was diagnosed with hydrocephalus and underwent further surgery and treatment.

The road was long and filled with obstacles. During a three-month hospital stay to treat bacterial ventriculitis, Faruk’s family exhausted their finances, leaving them isolated from their community. Stigma and discrimination compounded their challenges, but his mother’s resilience carried them through.

Today, Faruk’s story is one of hope and healing. Through the support of ReachAnother Foundation’s investment in SBH care, Faruk had a shunt inserted to manage his hydrocephalus and he now receives CIC care initiated by nurses trained at the hospital. He is enrolled in a pediatric physiotherapy program to support his milestones, which, though slow, are progressing. He is also a candidate for specialized ETV surgery, thanks to equipment donated by ReachAnother.

The changes in care have not only improved Faruk’s health but also empowered his mother to navigate these challenges with greater confidence. She shares: “God gave me a smiley and joyful child. I cherish him, and his older brothers truly love and care for him. He is a blessing; I know it. And soon, God willing, all will be well.”

Faruk’s journey reflects the profound impact of ReachAnother’s commitment to improving pediatric care in Ethiopia. Beyond the surgeries and equipment, it’s the compassionate training of nurses and the holistic support for families that truly transforms lives.