BONSA’S STORY
Bonsa journeyed to Ethio Tebib Hospital for much-needed cleft lip and palate treatment. Bonsa was born in the Oromia Region, West Hararghe. Bonsa is now nine months old, and he is the fifth child in his family.
Despite having no family history of cleft lip and palate, Bonsa was born with this challenge. Bonsa’s family have experienced both the social and health barriers that come with having an untreated cleft condition.
Bonsa was accompanied by his mother on the long journey to Ethio Tebib Hospital, Addis Ababa.
Upon arrival, Bonsa underwent a blood test to determine if he could receive treatment. Following this, he was able to receive the necessary treatment to correct his cleft lip.
Bonsa’s mother shared her experience of people in the community commenting and questioning her son’s condition. Receiving cleft treatment is of utmost importance for children in Ethiopia, as it not only improves their overall health and well-being but also positively impacts their social lives by alleviating stigmatisation and allowing them to fully participate in their communities.
The family expressed their heartfelt gratitude to Project Harar for providing them with treatment and wished for the organisation’s continued service for those affected by cleft lip and palate.
