Almost a decade ago, Romino, a young boy from Madagascar, received life-changing orthopedic surgery on board the Africa Mercy, a floating hospital ship operated by Mercy Ships.
Romino had developed bowed legs in early childhood, which prevented him from walking properly. Doctors in his hometown suggested leg massages to correct the issue, but nothing seemed to work.
In 2015, when Romino was three years old, his worried mother, Claudia, brought him to the Africa Mercy for surgery. The procedure was a success, and Romino recovered well, growing up with healthy, straight legs.
This year, the Africa Mercy returned to Madagascar, and Romino, now 12 years old, stepped aboard again in an emotional reunion. He told the staff that he wants to become a doctor himself, inspired by the Mercy Ships surgeons who saved his legs nine years ago.
“I remember when Mercy Ships taught me how to walk again and when they picked us up at our house,” said Romino. “Now I want to give people the same healing that I received. “After the surgery, Romino’s life changed dramatically. He can now run, walk, and play football just like his friends. His mother, Claudia, is amazed by the transformation and how people react when they see her son.
Claudia noted that people are often surprised when they see Romino, as no one believed he would transform in this way. Now, they frequently ask if he is indeed the same boy, often expressing disbelief at his remarkable progress.
When confronted with human compassion and kindness, individuals possess the potential to achieve far greater heights than they ever thought possible.