Methode in Burundi
When Methode was born with clubfoot, his parents rejoiced, accepting their son with love and hope, despite his physical condition. But their community responded differently.
People made hurtful remarks to his mother, Baravungwa, saying things like, “She gave birth to a child with clubfoot because she mocked people with disabilities.” These comments broke her heart.
Baravungwa began hiding her son. She stopped attending church services inside the building, staying outside to avoid people’s stares and scorn. Eventually, she stopped coming altogether—not due to a lack of faith, but because the comments hurt too much. However, in the midst of all this, the family kept trying to find healing for their son.
When Methode was born, the nurses advised his mother to bring him back for treatment after three to six months. That began a long season of trial and error, bouncing between clinics and receiving unsuccessful treatment.
Finally, the family met a neighbor who had received care at a hospital where he learned they successfully treated clubfoot. That is how the family ended up at a Hope Walks partner clinic.
The year Methode was born, harvests had suffered, which financially impacted the family. But Methode’s father, Nyandwi, was actively involved in seeing his son’s treatment through. Despite financial difficulty, he made sure they made it to appointments.
But without transportation assistance from Hope Walks, it might have been impossible for them to continue visiting the clinic. Also of great value was the counseling and education they received from the parent advisor. Through his regular check-ins, prayers, and the Word of God that he shared with them, Methode’s parents gained faith and hope that their child’s feet would be successfully corrected.
“The Word of God and the prayers shared with us gave us light and strength,” said Methode’s parents. “They helped us remain committed to following all aspects of the treatment protocol, especially with brace adherence.”
The parents are deeply grateful to everyone who contributed to their child’s successful treatment. They said that if they had not been able to access treatment, they would still be living in deep grief.
Written by Sarah Mummert
Methode before treatment
Methode wearing one of his casts
Methode with his parents during a counseling session
Methode walking on his straight feet with his parent advisor (left) and parents to the right.