Negors Oriental Provincial hospital

Emmarie is an 18-year-old college student who is studying criminology. Her dream is to protect and maintain peace in her country. She believes that serving the country is not only "a man's job," but a "responsibility of all citizens." Watsi's medical partner, International Care Ministries (ICM), describes her as "a woman of courage." Last September, Emmarie began to experience abdominal pain and swelling. For this reason, she began to have difficulty at school, eventually deciding to postpone her education. After undergoing diagnostic testing, Emmarie learned that she had a cyst on her ovary. Without treatment, Emmarie was at risk of the cyst bursting. Fortunately, on December 21, she underwent an ovarian cystectomy to remove the cyst. Emmarie's father works as a driver to provide for the family. He cannot afford this treatment, so ICM is requesting $890 in funding. After recovery, Emmarie plans to continue her education and training to become a policewoman. "When I learned about my condition, I felt downcast," says Emmarie. "I stopped schooling because of the pain I felt, especially during field training...I knew my parents could not afford to pay for treatment." She continues, "I was grateful to learn that I could be helped through your organization, and donors could sponsor my surgery. I give my heartfelt thanks to you in advance. Hopefully, after this surgery, I will live a normal life and return to school."

Judilyn is a 33-year-old woman from the Philippines. She currently experiences uncomfortable symptoms due to uterine fibroids. “She used to always participate in church activities and support her husband with the ministry,” explains our medical partner, International Care Ministries (ICM). “Judilyn also used to tend land before her condition has worsened.” ICM has diagnosed Judilyn with fibroids, or noncancerous growths, in her uterus. “Judilyn has been experiencing abnormal menstruation, accompanied by a dizziness that keeps her inactive for days,” explains ICM. With $668, Judilyn will undergo a hysterectomy, during which a surgeon will remove her uterus and ovaries. The operation will prevent Judilyn’s heavy bleeding, and as a result she will no longer feel dizzy and tired. “Judilyn looks forward to once again becoming a functional partner to her husband in the ministry,” shares ICM. Judilyn is very grateful for Watsi’s help: “Thank you for considering my needs. I believe that God will reward your love and generosity.”

When Sherlita falls asleep, she experiences difficulty breathing and has to sit up until the shortness of breath subsides. Sherlita is 48 years old and lives with her husband and three children in the Philippines. She tells our medical partner, International Care Ministries (ICM), "I am looking forward to be focused on caring for my family without any difficulty." Sherlita has menorrhagia, a condition that causes excessive menstrual bleeding and stiffening of her abdomen. This condition also causes difficulty breathing, limited mobility, fatigue, and lightheadedness. Without a hysterectomy, Sherlita's condition will persist and could worsen; limiting her mobility and comfort further. Before her menorrhagia began impeding her daily life, Sherlita was very active and mobile. "Sherlita used to do more than just housework before her condition worsened. They used to go on family outings and participate in church activities," ICM continues. "Now she has minimal involvement with any activities and she is excited to go back to their church activities and bible studies." For $668 Sherlita can have her uterus removed to rid her of heavy bleeding, abdominal discomfort, and numerous other complications. "Now, I have found hope in seeing my children have their own children and I could see them enjoy life and share my own experience and assistance," Sherlita says. "I am looking forward to being focused on caring for my family without any difficulty."