In a heartwarming celebration of resilience, healing, and advocacy, Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital became a beacon of hope last week. This was as World Clubfoot Day was commemorated. The event also marked the 20th anniversary of STEPS Clubfoot Care. It is a non-profit organisation (NPO) that has transformed thousands of young lives across Southern Africa.
Children Take Centre Stage
Children dressed in casts and braces, symbols of their journey through the Ponseti method of treatment, were the centre of attention. Families, healthcare professionals, and STEPS representatives gathered to celebrate the visible progress of those living with clubfoot. This congenital condition causes one or both feet to turn inward or downward.
“Clubfoot is not a life sentence, it’s a treatable condition,” said Karen Mara Moss, the founder and CEO of STEPS Clubfoot Care. “With early care, children born with clubfoot can walk, run, and live full lives.”
A Legacy of Life-Changing Impact
Since its inception in 2005, STEPS has helped over 20,000 children gain access to life-changing treatment, primarily through public healthcare clinics. The organisation has been instrumental in introducing and expanding the use of the Ponseti Method in South Africa. This non-surgical, low-cost treatment yields excellent results when started early.
“Our biggest achievement over the past 20 years has been driving change in the way clubfoot is treated in this region,” Moss reflected. “We’ve enabled access to treatment for children. Those who otherwise would have been missed due to backlogs in surgery or financial constraints now have opportunities.”
Expanding Access to Treatment
The shift has been remarkable.
“When we started, the Ponseti Method wasn’t widely known in South Africa,” Moss explained. “Now, thanks to our partnerships with public clinics and the South African Paediatric Orthopaedic Society, there are 48 specialist clubfoot clinics. These are supported in the public sector.”
Success Stories of Hope
One of the many success stories shared during the event was that of twin girls, Odirile and Ofentse, both born with bilateral clubfoot.
“Their parents were initially shocked by the diagnosis,” Moss shared, “but they followed every step of the treatment process. Today, the girls walk and play like any other child. Their story shows the power of early intervention and the role of supportive families.”
For clinic staff, the transformation of each child is personal.
“Most parents come in scared, overwhelmed, and uncertain for their baby’s future,” said Jane Mackinnon, STEPS clinic coordinator at Red Cross Children’s Hospital. “They always leave with renewed hope after we counsel them about clubfoot. The treatment journey ahead gives them confidence. The Ponseti method works wonders. I love seeing children walk into their check-ups after seeing them as newborns. You would never know they had clubfoot.”
Challenges on the Road to Recovery
Despite the progress, challenges remain,especially in rural and underserved areas.
“There is still a lack of awareness, late diagnoses, and high transport costs that keep families from accessing consistent treatment,” Moss explained. “Some families travel hundreds of kilometres to clinics and often miss appointments due to affordability concerns. Budget cuts in healthcare also affect the reliable supply of braces at our partner clinics.”
To combat these obstacles, STEPS provides a Family Resource Toolkit aimed at empowering caregivers and ensuring continuity of care.
Honouring the Legacy of Dr Ponseti
The commemoration on 3 June, World Clubfoot Day, also paid tribute to Dr Ignacio Ponseti. He is the pioneer of the globally recognised treatment method. STEPS’ work continues to be deeply inspired by his legacy of patient-centred care and innovation.
Looking Ahead
As the celebration came to a close, Moss reflected on the journey:
“We’re here because of 20 years of belief. Support has come from parents, doctors, and every supporter who has helped make treatment possible. We look forward to walking the next 20 years alongside even more families.” For more information or support, visit www.steps.org.za.
