Boi’s Story
A true and uplifting story about bravery and heroism.

A chance encounter changed the lives of one extraordinary little boy and hundreds of people who he met and touched along his journey. It is a story of courage, of compassion, and the impact that one life can have on so many.

The story begins in Mali, Africa, in the village of Daganbougou. When Boi was four a small lump on his cheek began to grow. Over the next few years the non-cancerous tumor continued to grow exponentially, dislocating his jaw, and altering the bones of his face. Boi’s parents spent what little money they had in search of medical treatment for their son, but no help could be found in Mali.

While Boi lived his life as if he were just an ordinary, happy little boy, his parents knew that soon he would no longer be able to eat or breathe. His family and his community began to give up. And then, they heard that doctors from America were in a village nearby. Boi’s uncle put him on the back of a motorcycle, and together they rode towards hope.

Five months and 45 hours of surgery later, thanks to a dedicated team of doctors and nurses who donated their time and talents, to the volunteers who raised funds to pay for his care, and to everyone who opened their hearts and homes to Boi and his father Zina, Boi returned home. His sweet nature and joyful laugh were unchanged, but his life and the lives of those he had touched were forever transformed.

Proceeds from the sale of this book will be used to fund healthcare services and educational opportunities for Boi and the children of his village in Mali. The plan is to build a school in Boi’s village, and to provide education on the importance of hygiene, nutrition, and healthy behaviors to the children of Daganbougou.

Boi’s Story is told through the words of Abigail Hayo, known as “Siraba” in Mali, Medical Missions Foundation volunteer and board member. Abigail kept record of her first meeting with Boi in Mali, through his journey to America and back home, via a blog on the Medical Missions Foundation website www.mmfworld.org. Other volunteers and “Boi villagers” added their words and photographs to the blog and to Boi’s Story. Abigail and creative director Brad Brzon, Medical Missions board member, worked together to create this tribute to Boi and those who love him. Sharing Boi’s story
will help us continue to improve the lives of Boi and his Malian village.

Please share this e-mail with your friends and family. You can also order books by calling 913 338-0343.