Josimara’s Hope: Fighting Hydrocephalus in Africa

Hi, my name is Josimara Bassangue. At the age of 20, I was diagnosed with hydrocephalus, a condition where an accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid occurs within the brain, leading to increased pressure. Living in the UK, I have been fortunate enough to receive the necessary medical care to manage my condition. However, even here, there were times when I thought I wouldn’t make it. The fear and uncertainty were overwhelming, and I often wondered if I would survive. The cover picture was me smiling after having a subarachnoid haemorrhage (bleeding on the brain) shunt replacement brain surgery.

I am a biomedical science graduate with a deep understanding of this condition, and I hope to become a doctor one day if my health settles. My knowledge and personal experience drive me to help those who are less fortunate, especially in Africa, where hydrocephalus is largely unknown and untreated.

Every day, I am haunted by the thought of countless children in Africa, particularly in Guiné-Bissau, who are not as fortunate. In many African countries, hydrocephalus often goes undiagnosed and untreated due to a lack of resources and awareness. Children suffer in silence, enduring severe pain, developmental delays, and, in many cases, death. Families are left helpless, watching their loved ones deteriorate without the means to provide the care they desperately need.

Our goal is to establish a hydrocephalus charity that will raise awareness, provide medical support, and offer financial assistance to those in need. With your help, we can change the fate of many innocent lives.

Your donations will go towards:

• Initial Administrative Costs: Establishing a foundation to ensure long-term support.

• Medical Supplies and Equipment: Providing life-saving surgeries and treatments.

• Training Programs for Healthcare Workers: Ensuring early diagnosis and proper care.

• Community Education and Awareness Campaigns: Reducing stigma and increasing understanding of hydrocephalus.

Imagine a child, unable to attend school or play with friends because of relentless pain and discomfort. Imagine a mother, holding her sick child, desperate for help but unable to find it. With your support, we can bring hope to these families. Hydrocephalus is largely unknown in Africa, and awareness is crucial to saving lives. Together, we can create a future where every child with hydrocephalus receives the care they deserve.

No contribution is too small. Every pound brings us closer to saving a life. Please join us in this critical mission. Your kindness can make an unimaginable difference.

Thank you for your support.