MONROVIA – The Jallah family is appealing for help to save the life of their fourteen-year-old son, Stanley Jallah, who has been afflicted by a tumor on his right heel. Due to this condition, Stanley has become an outcast in his community, facing rejection and isolation. Mr. James Jallah, the boy’s father, shared that the problem began as a small knot on Stanley’s foot when he was just a year old, but it has progressively grown over the years.
By Mae Azango, [email protected]
Recalling their previous attempts to seek medical intervention, Mr. Jallah explained that they had taken Stanley to the JFK Medical Center when the knot was smaller. However, they were turned away due to the unavailability of hospital beds. Similar experiences occurred at three other medical centers, where the tests yielded no conclusive results. Financial constraints have further hindered their ability to pursue extensive medical care. Consequently, they turned to Dr. Dwana’s clinic, where they have received invaluable assistance in treating Stanley’s condition.
Stanley’s debilitating state has prevented him from attending school, leaving him disheartened. Mr. Jallah expressed his earnest appeal to individuals and NGOs, calling for their assistance in restoring his son’s health. He provided the contact information of Dr. Dwana, who has been offering vital support in their journey. Dr. Dwana can be reached at the following cell numbers: 0770421977/0886420152.
Upon our arrival at the Teatima Sardo Bemah Dwana Clinic in Jacob Town, located on Somalia Drive, Stanley sat alone behind a flower bush in the yard until he was summoned indoors. However, an unpleasant odor filled the room when Stanley entered and took his place in Dr. Dwana’s office. He shared the painful reality of being rejected by his peers and the community at large due to the odor emanating from his foot. Stanley’s only solace comes from his father and the compassionate care he receives from Dr. Dwana.
“My foot’s odor makes everyone avoid me, and I have no friends,” Stanley sadly revealed. “Whenever I try to watch a football game, people cover their noses, claiming that I smell. I am unable to go anywhere. Even at night, the pain in my foot prevents me from sleeping unless Dr. Dwana provides pain relief,” he added.
Dr. Joseph Dwana, an internist, has been diligently treating Stanley with antibiotics and painkillers to alleviate the odor and discomfort. However, he expressed concern that the child may experience depression due to the community’s rejection. Dr. Dwana emphasized the unfairness of a young child enduring such a condition that is not his fault, forcing him to remain isolated even in the absence of his father.
Having examined Stanley approximately two years ago, Dr. Dwana suspects the tumor to be a soft tissue growth, potentially cancerous or noncancerous. He confidently stated that if it were cancerous, it would have worsened over the thirteen years and rendered Stanley unable to walk. Despite their efforts to obtain biopsy results from various medical centers, they were not provided with conclusive information.
Dr. Dwana explained that if the tissue is noncancerous, the best course of action would be to remove the mass through burning. However, if it is cancerous, amputation may be the only viable option. Nevertheless, Dr. Dwana remains optimistic that the mass is not cancerous, as the condition would have deteriorated significantly by now. He stressed the importance of identifying the nature of the mass to determine the appropriate remedy.
Dr. Dwana explained that they had contacted ELBC on three separate occasions seeking assistance, but regrettably, they were only able to raise a meager sum of US$60.00. During their most recent visit, they received a generous contribution of U.S $200.00 from the JFK administrator. However, the funds were primarily utilized for drug transportation and the costs associated with essential tests, which, unfortunately, did not yield the expected results. Being retired, Dr. Dwana lacks the financial means to cover the expenses required for the child’s necessary surgery. Nonetheless, they remain dedicated to providing the best care possible by administering antibiotics, medications to manage pain, and ensuring the child receives proper nourishment. Dr. Dwana joins the father in making a heartfelt appeal for assistance to save the child’s life.