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One of Sherika Harris' greatest wishes is for her only child, Rafael Lee, to have a normal life. However, a rare medical condition called tibial hemimelia (TH) is standing in his way.

As a result, Harris is seeking the public's assistance to raise the estimated US$250,000 (approximately J$35.6 million) needed to do corrective surgery in the United States.

"He is my first and only child and I just want him to live a normal life like any five-year-old," Harris said.

TH, also known as tibial deficiency, is a condition in which a child is born with a tibia that is shorter than normal or missing altogether. This creates a difference in the length of the child's legs. The condition is extremely rare, occurring in only about one out of every one million births.

Harris said that her son could sustain damage to his spine, hip and foot if his condition is not addressed.

"The surgery would mean the world to us, as our baby would gain ability rather than lifelong disability, that comes with a myriad of challenges," she said.

The Gordon Town, St Andrew, resident said that shortly after she delivered baby Rafael at the University Hospital of the West Indies, she noticed that one of his legs was different, and was told by a doctor that someone would speak to her. A day later, persons from the orthopaedics department came and first identified it as a possible club foot, but took him to get an X-ray, which confirmed he had TH.

Have to be amputated

Harris said they sought the assistance of doctors at Paley Institute in Florida, who told her that her son's leg did not have to be amputated but can be treated through corrective surgeries.

"He recommended that Rafael undergo three surgeries and physical therapy to correct his condition, the estimated cost of which is US$250,000.

"So far we have raised US$17,000 from charitable organisations, which we are really appreciative of, but we really need a lot more. We would like him to do the surgery as soon as possible because he is five now and growing," she said.

Persons wishing to assist Rafael Lee may contact his mother, Sherika Harris, at (876)478-9569. Donations may be made at Sagicor Bank, Tropical Plaza branch. Account number: 5502458247.