This "thing" was removed from a small Maasai girl this fall with donations from friends. This "thing" is a hydatid cyst which was the largest one blocking the abdomen of this small child. Without this surgery, death was certain. These cysts develop when people live in close proximity with dogs and sheep and goats. If it's a must to have dogs to help in herding sheep and goats, then upmost cleanliness must be observed regarding handwashing before eating. Without water available, this is not always possible, but it's the only way to wipe out the disease. Hydatidosis is common in the areas down behind the mission. The child is now taking medicines which will clear out any remaining eggs and cysts. Her father and mother have promised they will help in educating their neighbors and friends about how to prevent this condition.Friday, December 4, 2009
CHILD'S LIFE SAVED
This "thing" was removed from a small Maasai girl this fall with donations from friends. This "thing" is a hydatid cyst which was the largest one blocking the abdomen of this small child. Without this surgery, death was certain. These cysts develop when people live in close proximity with dogs and sheep and goats. If it's a must to have dogs to help in herding sheep and goats, then upmost cleanliness must be observed regarding handwashing before eating. Without water available, this is not always possible, but it's the only way to wipe out the disease. Hydatidosis is common in the areas down behind the mission. The child is now taking medicines which will clear out any remaining eggs and cysts. Her father and mother have promised they will help in educating their neighbors and friends about how to prevent this condition.
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Wow - that's huge - for a little child.
ReplyDeleteGood idea to separate out the medical stuff from FB -
You are becoming a "Medical Missionary" - after all.
Love to read about all these things, Joanne. For some strange reason, it is all fascinating.
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