Injured Kenyan boy back to Sydney for surgery

Safari Kimanzi is a Kenyan boy who suffered severe facial burns. He underwent 14 operations in Australia eight years ago and, now aged 16, is returning to Australia next month for further surgery at Royal North Shore Hospital.

Safari is returning for reconstructive surgery at Royal North Shore Hospital. Surgeon John Vandervord said they hope to create an ear that will be a very good match to his normal right ear.

Safari previously had 14 operations in Australia, which took place eight years ago to repair his badly burnt face.

The upcoming surgery is scheduled at Royal North Shore Hospital and involves surgeon John Vandervord, who commented on efforts to reconstruct an ear to match Safari’s right ear.

Frank and Janet Scaysbrook, from Lake Macquarie, are bringing Safari back to Australia. They set up an appeal to support Safari and his family, have written a book, and have worked with charities on his behalf.

Safari’s story was featured on the television series RPA, which helped raise public awareness of his medical journey and circumstances.

Safari’s mother died after being bitten by a snake in 2003, and his remote village has been ravaged by drought, compounding the challenges his family faces.

According to the article, support has been organised through an appeal set up by Frank and Janet Scaysbrook; they have also written a book and worked with charities to help Safari and his family.