Phenia in Zambia
When Phenia was born in Zambia with clubfoot, her young mother, Chimfwembe, was overwhelmed by disbelief and the weight of community whispers—some called her child “disabled,” others cursed. Isolated by misunderstanding and hurtful words, the family found themselves at a crossroads of despair and hope.
Their journey led them to the Hope Walks partner clinic at Arthur Davidson Children’s Hospital, where expert care began with cast treatment—a process that, for this scared mom, initially felt like punishment. However, as Phenia transitioned into the brace stage, a new hope emerged. The counseling sessions not only taught them how to care for Phenia but also reignited their faith.
Chimfwembe reflects, “When I started believing that my child would be healed after counseling, my child began responding to treatment. Therefore, without belief, one cannot receive.”
Like the father in the Bible who cried out to Jesus, “I believe; help my unbelief,” (Mark 9:24), Chimfwembe realized the power of faith in the process at that moment.
Today, each step Phenia takes is a triumph over adversity, a testament to the healing power of belief and the unwavering strength of a mother’s love.
