Fatoumata’s Story

Written by Fatoumata’s Mom

Dear Friends,

My daughter Fatoumata is 13 years old and came to Canada in August of 2023.

Fatoumata and I had been apart since May 2016 because I had to come to Canada and leave her with her Paternal grandmother in Gambia.

Being away from her was one the hardest things in life.

When her pictures were sent to me I had noticed that something was wrong with her because she wasn't growing like how she was supposed to be. 

When she came to Canada in 2023 a week later, I took her to sick kids hospital in Toronto because she was sick.

They also noticed the poor growth and admitted her. She got blood work, xrays , ultrasounds etc., come to find out she's been diagnosed with Noonan Syndrome. 

Noonan syndrome is a genetic condition that stops typical development in various parts of the body. It can affect a person in several ways, including unusual facial features, short height, heart problems and other physical problems. It also can cause a child to develop more slowly than usual, for example, in walking, talking or learning new things.

Taking care of Fatoumata and 2 other kids isn't easy but that's motherhood and I'm staying strong. With the help of Sick Kids Hospital and Sarah Tapley Foundation, I couldn't be more thankful!