Denis's journey - Update
A young boy's journey that has taken a new and hopeful turn
Denis had a difficult start in life. And his future looked challenging. Without surgery, he’d lose all use of his legs. He’d never walk again. But thanks to CBM supporters, Denis is standing straight and tall, and looking toward a better future.
When Agnes, our outreach worker met Denis, his right leg was bowed so badly that he could barely walk. Each step caused him intense pain.
She brought him to the clinic for an assessment, where doctors confirmed he had Blount’s disease. This disorder causes the shin (lower leg) bone to angle and grow inward.
Denis and his family travelled to CBM funded CoRSU Hospital in Kampala, Uganda for reconstructive surgery.
Denis’ operation . . .
Surgeons had to break the bone in Denis’ right let, and re-set it straight.
A ‘fixator’, composed of metal struts held in place by long screws, was attached to Denis’ leg. The fixator, which he’d need to wear for up to eight weeks, would allow his leg to heal in a straight position.
As Denis’ left leg wasn’t as bowed, surgeons fixed a small metal plate just above his knee to stop the growth of his bone on one side. So as the other side grew, and as Denis got taller, the left leg would straighten. This would take up nine months.
Recovery . . .
The day after surgery, Denis began physiotherapy to strengthen his muscles, and keep the bones supple as they healed.
One week after his surgery, Denis was discharged from hospital. He returned to his village walking proudly with his new crutches (Look at the smile on his face!)
Thanks to compassionate people like you, Denis will receive all the help he needs as he continues with his physiotherapy. And as there’s a chance his legs will bow again, our doctors will keep a close on him, and provide him with all the care he needs.
Denis is now back at school. If you would like to see Denis's progress you can watch it here .
