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  1. Request received23/03/2026
  2. Checked & confirmed26/06/2026
  3. Fundraising26/06/2026
  4. Treatment provided17/07/2026
  5. Invoice paid24/08/2026
  6. Case closed
Why is treatment sometimes done earlier than the payment?

When a case is urgent and vital, hospitals often proceed with delivering medical care right away to save a life, even before the finalisation of admission procedures. Usually, when this happens, hospitals put the bill on our credit until the funds are transferred to their accounts. That’s why the chronology can sometimes be in disorder.

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Harriet T., 16

In treatment
Health problem

Bones & joints

Urgency rating

17

Required amount

$3060

About bones & joints

Harriet is a 16-year-old girl with a long-standing swelling of the lower jaw, mainly on the left, progressively enlarging over 10 years. It is associated with pain, facial deformity, loose teeth with occasional bleeding, and difficulty chewing. Imaging shows a large odontogenic cyst affecting the front and both sides of the mandible, with bone thinning, Grade II–III tooth mobility, and displaced teeth causing a misaligned bite. The lesion has expanded into a multiloculated mass, leading to functional and cosmetic challenges. An odontogenic cyst is a fluid-filled sac arising from tooth-forming tissues, often linked to unerupted teeth, and can enlarge, causing bone damage, tooth displacement, and swelling if untreated.

Thank you for saving this life!

100%

$3060 raised of $3060

Barika Medical Centre

Rose Avenue, Hurlingham, Nairobi

Background

Harriet is a bright and compassionate 15-year-old from Kibera who enjoys reading, playing, and supporting younger children in her community. Her health journey began about nine years ago when a facial swelling was first noticed. She later attended a medical camp by Helpster Charity and was referred to Barika Medical Centre, where tests confirmed a multiloculated dentigerous cyst causing bone destruction and facial deformity, with occasional breathing difficulty. She first presented in April 2025 with progressive jaw swelling, pain, loose teeth, and difficulty chewing. Investigations confirmed an odontogenic cyst. She was admitted in May 2025 and underwent a successful segmental mandibulectomy with titanium plate reconstruction. Postoperative recovery was good, with restored facial symmetry and resolution of disease. Her treatment plan includes three stages: resection (completed), bone grafting (pending), and later dental rehabilitation. She is currently healing well and due for for the next surgery (bone grafting) to strengthen the jaw and prevent complications.

Prognosis

Findings confirm a significant mandibular odontogenic cyst that required surgery. The first stage—resection with immediate titanium plate reconstruction—was successfully done, removing the disease and restoring facial symmetry. Healing has been good, indicating readiness for the second stage: autogenous iliac bone grafting to reinforce the jaw and prevent complications like plate failure or tissue breakdown. With completion of all stages, including dental rehabilitation, the prognosis remains favorable. Harriet has shown good recovery with no recurrence. Bone grafting is key for long-term stability, and she is expected to regain function, improved appearance, and low risk of complications.

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