The brave teen’s parents are desperately trying to secure a medical diagnosis
Even though Rahma Haruna was born healthy, when she turned six months old, she started to suffer the traumatic symptoms of a mystery condition.
The illness, which has prevent her arms and legs from developing, has left the 19-year-old limbless.
Her mum, Fadi, from Kano, Nigeria, explained: “From six months when she learnt how to sit that was when it began. She didn’t learn how to crawl.
“She started with a fever and that was it. Then stomach pains. Then her body parts like hands and legs.”
When her chronic pain flares up, Rahma is left completely incapacitated and heavily relies on her family.
To transport the teen around the village, her caring family carry her around in a plastic bowl.
Much of the responsibility is taken up by Rahma’s 19-year-old brother Fahad, who lovingly dotes on his older sister.
Protective Fahad confessed: “I help her in many ways. Bathing her is another thing I do, and taking her out every day.
“I feel happy whenever I see people helping her. I like taking to our relatives. She feels happy when we visit them.”
Even though Rahma has had some medical consultations, her illness is yet to be diagnosed.
Some professionals have told the family that they believe the teen has been struck down by a jinn, a supernatural being from Islamic mythology.
As well as helping Rahma with her mobility, her family have sacrificed a lot in their battle to get her condition medically recognised.
Rahma’s dad, Hussaini, explained: “I’ve spent 15 years searching for the cure. I farm, go to the market and lots more looking for money to pay for her bills.
“I sold almost everything in my possession. I have spent more than one million naira (£2,600), so far. Only God knows the real amount of what I had spent.”
The determined family also hope to attract the attention of a charity or specialist who can offer some advice.
Since starting their campaign, the Harundas have received a number of generous gifts.
A kind-hearted donor has given the family a wheelchair, which helps to transport Rahma around the village.
Even though Rahma battles with severe symptoms every day, she refuses to let her condition get in the way of her hopes and dreams.
She said: “I thank God in everything I do.
“I want to start a business. A grocery store and anything people buy, that is what I want.”
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