Discover how child sponsorship helped a 12-year-old girl in Benin recover from kidney failure and return to school with hope for the future.
Anne, a 12-year-old girl in Benin, survived kidney failure with support from Plan International’s child sponsorship program. Today, she is back in school and dreaming of becoming a doctor.
The day everything changed
When Anne woke up that morning, everything felt different. She didn’t feel like herself.
A bright student and natural leader, Anne loved going to school and spending time with her friends. She dreamed of one day becoming a doctor so she could help save lives. At her local children’s club, she encouraged others to stay positive and work hard, often leading by example.
But that morning, even getting out of bed felt impossible. Something was very wrong.
A life-threatening diagnosis
With growing worry, Anne’s mother took her daughter to a local health center. After two weeks without improvement, doctors diagnosed Anne with kidney failure. Her condition was serious and required urgent, specialized care.
"I couldn’t walk or even talk. I was very scared. But I never gave up hope."
Critical care and lifesaving support
Anne was transferred to the nearest hospital, where she received weeks of intensive care. The treatment saved her life. Anne’s recovery was made possible with support from Plan International’s child sponsorship program in Benin.
For four years, Anne has been a sponsored child. When she became critically ill, Plan helped ensure she could access lifesaving care. Support included:
- Coverage of her hospital costs.
- Daily meals for Anne and her family.
- Ongoing emotional and psychosocial support.
This support eased the financial burden on her family and made it possible for Anne to focus on healing.
A return to school and renewed hope
As Anne regained her strength, she was finally able to return home. Her community gathered to welcome her, with members of her children’s club singing and dancing to celebrate her recovery.
“We prayed for her every Wednesday,” her friend Clementine said. “When we saw her again, we shouted with joy.” Another friend added, “Anne inspires us. She shows us we should never give up.”
A future filled with possibility
Today, Anne is healthy and back in school. She spends her days learning, playing with friends and thinking about what comes next. Her experience has strengthened her determination to achieve her goals. She remains focused on her dream of becoming a doctor and helping others in need.
“I can smile again. Thank you to Plan International and my sponsor for never giving up on me."
The impact of child sponsorship
Child sponsorship helps children like Anne access health care, stay in school and feel supported during times of crisis. Anne’s story shows how sponsors like you can make a lasting difference — especially when families face unexpected challenges.
