I met Blessing during my last visit to Umuagwu, when I saw her dancing with a severe limp and learned she had been suffering from “polio induced clubbed foot” for almost all of her short life.
Deacon Leo and I consulted with physicians, who recommended she undergo a procedure to correct her foot deformity. We successfully raised the funds through your generosity and Blessing was prepared for surgery.
Now, I am excited to announce that Blessing has been discharged from Holy Rosary Hospital and is back at MENPS on her newly stabilized left foot. While her mobility is not yet normal, it is much improved.
Before surgery, she walked on the turned arch of her foot. “I was always in pain and my leg was always sore, but now the pain is gone”, said Blessing. “I can now walk properly with my sole flat on the ground.”
This does not mean she can run and kick soccer balls. At least, not yet.
“The triple arthrodesis surgery was to correct the foot deformity, which we happily and successfully achieved”, said Dr. Jane Frances Okonwko, part of the surgical team.
We will explore future options to improve Blessing’s mobility, as limited by leg maladies accrued over 11 years since polio struck her at age 4. “The residual weakness in her limb was not addressed by this surgery”, Dr. Okonkwo explained.
Blessing’s new ability to walk pain free with a restored foot has emotional benefits too. “Before my surgery, I always felt disfigured and my school friends would even joke about it, which made me feel constantly sad”, she says.
Now relieved of the emotional and physical stress of her condition, Blessing is most grateful. “I pray that God will replenish the pockets of HEAL benefactors and bless them with good health and long life”, she said.
I echo Blessing’s gratitude for your generosity, which has made a world of positive difference in the young life of one the Masters.