Juliana's Story

In August of 2012, Juliana and her guardian Mama Lynn got on an airplane for the first time in Juliana's life in Tanzania, Africa headed for Orange County, CA.

Juliana lives in a children’s home run by Mama Lynn in Tanzania.  She was born with severely deformed legs and was abandoned by her mother at birth.  For most of her 15 years she has been able to get around by creatively using her knees. Dr. Afshin Aminian, an orthopedic surgeon at CHOC Children's, offered her the chance to fly to the United States to have her legs removed and be fitted for prosthetics.  The surgery and all of her travel costs have been donated.

Juliana’s surgery went well and she is now healing and learning how to walk using her prosthetics. The staff loves hearing about her successes and progress. She and Mama Lynn can often be found in the dining room, laughing and talking with other families over a shared meal prepared by volunteers. Juliana has formed a special bond with another patient staying at the House named James. When they see each other, their faces light up.

While in the Ronald McDonald House, watching TV isn't the only thing Juliana likes to do. Juliana has experienced so many new things since being here. She saw Batman Live at Honda Center, went to Disneyland, and is now learning English.

Juliana stayed at the Ronald McDonald House until flying home to Africa on October 31st.

Click here to make a donation in Juliana's honor.