Saisa: a new prosthetic leg for a new life

Back to school after her amputation

Saisa was 10 years old when she was amputated below her left knee after an insect bite became severely infected. She was looked after by HI's teams, who provided her with the necessary psychological and medical care. HI also helped Saisa's family with advice on the best way to support her and built safety rails at their home to help her move around.

Saisa had to move to a school closer to home where the teachers are trained in inclusive teaching methods. Her classmate, Ana, walks with her to school every day.

Now, 11, Saisa is thriving at Horsed Primary School in Kakuma. Her teacher describes her as cheerful and sociable, with lots of friends. Academically, she is a very serious, hard-working student.

Ambitious and determined, Saisa radiates self-confidence

To help her move around more easily, and thanks to the support of the U.S. State Department's Bureau of Population, Refugees, and Migration, Saisa has been provided with crutches and artificial limbs. As she had outgrown her old prosthesis, she was just been fitted with a new one, adapted to her size—a real boost for this joyful little girl!

Saisa is also supported by HI's ECHO-funded inclusive education project. HI’s teams organize art therapy sessions, in which art provides a powerful means of expression. Saisa loves taking part in these sessions, where she can give free rein to her creativity and boundless energy. The project also covers her travel costs – support that is particularly welcome during the rainy season when walking to school is difficult because of the flooded and muddy roads.

Today, Saisa is a radiant little girl. She has regained her self-confidence, due largely to the inclusive rights club she attends with her classmates. During their meetings, she learns to defend her interests, but also to be a support to her classmates. She also looks forward to the inclusive sports sessions, relishing every opportunity to play and interact with the other children.

Two years ago, Saisa wanted to work in business. Today, her dream has changed: her ambition now is to become a pediatrician. We wish this little girl the best of luck as she pursues her dreams.