Papua New Guinea
December 12, 2025

Krisselda goes home

Suffering from a very rare genetic condition, Krisselda was brought by ROMAC to Canberra for multiple surgeries.

Child smiling at camera

Krisselda, a Papua New Guinean girl who arrived in Canberra in March 2024, had multiple surgeries at the Canberra Hospital for caudal duplication syndrome, a very rare genetic condition in which internal systems are duplicated and bowel and bladder functions are not normal. Krisselda made good progress with her medical issues under the care of A/Prof Celine Hamid and A/Prof David Croaker.

Krisselda attended Gold Creek School in between surgery and outpatient appointments and was hosted by Rotarian Gordana. While in Australia she turned 10 years old, celebrating her birthday with friends and Rotarians in a local park. She, and her mother Sonia, returned home in November, happy to be able to live a normal life.

More patient stories

Recent Stories

Vanuatu
May 12, 2026
Miliana returns to Vanuatu after successful hip surgery

Twelve-year-old Miliana has returned to Vanuatu after a successful operation in Adelaide to correct her painful hip condition.

Read more
Vanuatu
May 11, 2026
Brother and sister arrive in Canberra for treatment

A brother and sister from Vanuatu have arrived in Canberra for treatment for their club feet, and have been treated to a ROMAC-style birthday party for the eldest, Anis, as he turned 13.

Read more
Vanuatu
April 23, 2026
Tom’s journey continues

Tom is still receiving treatment for his club feet and is recovering well after surgery. While the journey is ongoing his strength and determination are evident every day.

Read more

Treatment in cases like this can cost more than $100,000

Any donation you can make will help make treatment like this possible.