Dr. Kazadi: From Promise to Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon
“I remember when my father gave me that T-shirt that read, ‘I want to be a doctor.’ I was only six, but it was only a few years later when I realized how that sentence paved the road for where I am today.”
Dr. Kazadi recalls the moment he knew he wanted to be a doctor. And his journey to becoming a Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon at CURE Niger is nothing short of inspiring. Growing up in Congo, Dr. Kazadi’s dream was nurtured by his father and his gift of that prophetic T-shirt. Inspired, the future doctor confidently declared, “One day, I will be one!”
At school, he excelled in biology, chemistry, and mathematics. When the time came to choose a career path, his father echoed, “Remember, you said you want to be a doctor.” That T-shirt symbolized his choices—eventually transforming into a powerful mission to help children in need.
After completing medical school, Dr. Kazadi began his career in the medical field, first in private practice and then in government hospitals. Later, he joined the team at CURE Children’s Hospital of Zambia, where he initially served as a General Medical Officer. During this time, he encountered orthopedic surgeons who left a lasting impression on him. He was deeply moved by how CURE didn’t just heal bodies but also embraced the spiritual side of care, offering prayer and comfort to patients and their families. “I wanted to be like those surgeons I saw at CURE—helping children walk again, bringing hope to families desperate for care.”
Scholarship for a Pediatric Orthopedic Residency
Dr. Kazadi’s journey continued when he received a scholarship for a pediatric orthopedic residency at CURE Children’s Hospital of Kenya, where he spent six years in specialized training. The opportunity to get trained with CURE’s support was life-changing. There, he learned from some of the most competent consultants in the field and was trained to handle virtually any case in pediatric orthopedic surgery.
“I had the chance to work with the most skilled surgeons, but what stood out was that they didn’t just treat the physical body,” Dr. Kazadi said. “They were Christian doctors, and that meant something. They showed me that being a doctor wasn’t just about treating a disease but about caring for the whole person—body, mind, and spirit.”
A Promise Fulfilled
His decision to join CURE Children’s Hospital of Niger was part of an earlier promise he made, even before receiving formal training. The unique challenges of serving in Niger, such as the lack of specialized surgeons and the security issues, did not deter him. Instead, Dr. Kazadi embraced these challenges with determination and compassion. “When I came to Niger, I was fulfilling a promise I made. I knew the challenges would be different, but I was ready to serve here just as promised,” he said.
Working in Niger has been a transformative experience for Dr. Kazadi, both personally and professionally. He takes the time to explain each patient’s condition, offering medical care, comfort, and guidance. His approach is deeply rooted in empathy—recognizing the profound impact his care can have on a child’s life.Dr. Kazadi says, “I always put myself in the patient’s shoes. What would I want someone to do for me if I were in their place? I always make time to listen, which makes a difference.”
Despite the challenges—such as the extreme weather, language barriers, and cultural differences—Dr. Kazadi thrives at CURE Niger, and he loves being used by God to help kids heal.
Reflecting on his journey, Dr. Kazadi sees a remarkable transformation from the young boy who dreamed of becoming a doctor to the man he is today—a skilled pediatric orthopedic surgeon deeply committed to his faith and serving others. His training at CURE Kenya has made him a better doctor and person. “If I had known about CURE earlier,” he says, “I would have wanted to join much sooner. I’m thankful daily for the opportunity that enabled me to do what I do today.”
His father’s words remained with him throughout the years of dedication and perseverance. Dr. Kazadi’s journey is a testament to the power of dreams, resilience, and faith. Today, he is living the life he once envisioned—not just as a surgeon but as a Christian doctor with the privilege of serving children in need. Dr. Kazadi emphasizes, “Being part of CURE is more than just a career; it’s about transforming lives. And that’s what makes this journey so meaningful.”
Every gift made to CURE enables world-class surgeons to deliver healing to even the most remote regions. Thank you for standing with us on this mission.
