David, 12, had lived his entire life with untreated bilateral clubfoot. Orthopedic surgery gave him the ability to walk normally for the first time.
"David, 12, had lived his entire life with untreated bilateral clubfoot. Orthopedic surgery gave him the ability to walk normally for the first time."
David was born with bilateral clubfoot in rural Nepal. Without access to proper medical care, his condition went untreated for twelve years. He could only walk on the sides of his feet, causing pain and making it impossible to keep up with other children.
His family heard about the MolGen orthopedic mission through their local health worker. They traveled two days by bus to reach Dhulikhel Hospital.
Dr. Rajesh Patel, the lead orthopedic surgeon, performed corrective surgery on both of David's feet over two separate procedures. The operations involved careful repositioning of bones and tendons, followed by casting and physical therapy.
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"The transformation was remarkable," says Dr. Patel. "Within three months of surgery and therapy, David was walking flat-footed for the first time in his life."
The mission also trained David's local health worker in follow-up care and exercises, ensuring his continued progress even after the team left.
Today, David plays football with his friends and walks the mountain paths around his village without assistance. "I can do anything now," he says proudly. "I want to be a teacher and help children in my village."
Outcome
Full correction of bilateral clubfoot. David walks normally and participates in sports.
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