Injured Iraqi boy gets new leg after all

PORTLAND, Ore. – Some two weeks ago, an injured Iraqi boy who came to Portland for a new prosthetic leg was told his injuries were too severe to be able to use one.

But this past week, on Mustafa Abed’s sixth birthday, he got a surprise.

Doctors at Shriners Hospital for Children in Portland said they couldn’t let the boy down so they found a way to make the prosthesis work.

He was not wearing it this weekend because it needs adjustments. But his father said through an interpreter that they are hopeful it will work.

In the meantime, the boy, who suffered extensive injuries from shrapnel during a U.S. missile strike in Fallujah, has adapted. He is even able to use his upper body to whip around and kick a ball.

Mustafa starts physical therapy on Monday and will continue until he goes home in early December. On Wednesday, Portland Mayor Tom Potter is declaring an official day of recognition for the boy.

Categorised in: Children

This post was written by Cole Miller