Join Brian's Journey Towards Healing

Dear Friends,

Brian is a wonderful young man that we have been blessed to raise since he was 7 years old at the Haven Child Care Homes. Brian, who is 19 years old now, graduated from high school last December. Our hearts ache for him as we write this today. Brian is facing a tremendous challenge. Back in February, our world turned upside down when Brian was diagnosed with an Arteriovenous malformation (AVM) in his brain. Brian has been experiencing terrible headaches, seizures, pain in his eyes with bright light, emotionally withdrawn, forgetfulness, difficulty finding words to say and having a hard time fully understanding words.

Brian has dreams of attending university and pursuing a degree in computer science. He is full of life, kindness, enthusiasm and a laughter that fills our home with such joy. Seeing his future put on hold is heartbreaking.

In April, we traveled with Brian to Johannesburg, South Africa for an angiography procedure. Unfortunately, we were informed that open surgery would not be a safe option due to the size of the AVM. However, they proposed a procedure called “Liquid Embolization of a brain AVM”. This procedure involves injecting a special “glue-like” substance to block the abnormal arteries feeding the AVM, reducing its blood flow. If the AVM remains untreated, it can rupture causing hemorrhage, stroke, brain damage and may be fatal. His brain is like a ticking time bomb.

The cost for the procedure, hospital stay, medications, accommodation, food, transportation, and flights are a significant $60,000.00. This includes his follow up visit after 6 months time. The Haven, as much as we love and care for all our children, simply cannot afford this immense sum on our own.

Today we are reaching out and asking for your help. Any contribution you can make will bring us closer to giving Brian the treatment he needs for a long, healthy life, giving him the opportunity to chase after his dreams.

We appreciate you taking the time and reading Brian's story. We thank you for continual prayers and support. With your help we believe we can turn this fight into a victory for Brian and his future.

With deepest gratitude,

Jason and Cintia Kumalo

The Haven Child Care Homes – Directors & House Parents

Namwianga Mission

Zambia Mission Fund