Kihembo in DRC
Holistic support—emotional, spiritual, social, and physical—enables not only healing for a child with clubfoot, but also for the entire family.
Kihembo’s family experienced deep despair and a sense of helplessness regarding their son’s condition. They felt useless and stigmatized in their village in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Some neighbors mocked them or viewed their child as a curse. This social isolation heightened their worry for their son’s future.
Despite these challenges, they held onto hope. Their determination to seek help ultimately led them to a Hope Walks partner clinic.
Every treatment session was emotionally and logistically difficult, due to long-distance travel and a strict treatment protocol. But the parent advisor’s support profoundly impacted the family and made the process doable—and Kihembo will grow up with straight feet as a result!
“Counseling provided essential psychosocial support, reducing my anxiety, guilt, and sense of isolation, while strengthening my resilience and confidence,” said Syauswa, Kihembo’s mother. “Spiritually, my advisor encouraged me to maintain hope and faith, helping me feel guided by God throughout the healing process. This holistic support reinforced my commitment to the treatment and my active participation in my child’s recovery journey.”
Families have hope when others walk alongside them. Despair grows in isolation. Praise God for the healing for Kihembo and his family!
Written by Sarah Mummert
(Left) Kihembo in his casts (Right) Kihembo in his braces to maintain foot correction.