Lucia is a baby from southern Bolivia. Her mother stays home with her, and her father is a delivery driver. Lucia was born with a heart condition called coarctation of the aorta. A major blood vessel leading to the heart is too small, which leaves Lucia weak and unable to properly grow. Additionally, she has turner syndrome. Lucia needs surgery to open the aorta to its full size. This will allow blood to flow more easily so she can grow up healthy. Lucia's mother states: "Our family is so happy to know that our daughter can finally have this surgery; we have been hoping for this opportunity since she was born."

Im is a grandmother from Cambodia. Her husband passed away twelve years ago. After the passing of her husband, Im moved in with her daughter and her family. Her other two sons live nearby, and help support the family by working in clothing factories. Since retiring from rice farming ten years ago, Im helps care for her seven grandchildren, and enjoys going to volunteer and pray at the village pagoda in her free time. About three months ago, Im developed a cataract in her left eye, causing her itchiness, tearing, and blurry vision. She has difficulty seeing things clearly, including colors and faces, and is worried about falling when walking, so is not able to go places on her own. When Im learned about our medical partner, Children's Surgical Centre, she traveled for three hours seeking treatment. On February 6th, doctors will perform a small incision cataract surgery and implant an intraocular lens in her left eye. After recovery, she will be able to see clearly. Now, she needs help to fund this $253 procedure. She shared, "I hope after surgery my eye can see better so I can easily go out and take care of myself without everyone worrying about me."

Juley is a 16-month-old baby from Haiti. He lives with his parents who are market vendors, and his grandparents in a small village near the capital. He is a very cheerful and curious child. Juley has a cardiac condition called ventricular septal defect and patent ductus arteriosus. Two separate holes exist in and near his heart: one between the two lower chambers of his heart, and a second between two major blood vessels next to the heart. Blood leaks through these holes, leaving him weak and short of breath. Juley will fly to the Dominican Republic to receive treatment. On May 2nd, he will undergo cardiac surgery, during which surgeons will sew the holes closed so that blood can no longer leak through them. Another organization is contributing funds to pay for surgery. Juley's family needs help funding the costs of surgery prep. The $1,500 bill covers labs, medicines, checkups, and follow-up appointments. It also supports passport obtainment and the social workers from our medical partner, Haiti Cardiac Alliance, who will accompany Juley's family overseas. Juley's mother says: "Our family will be praying for everyone who is helping our son become healthy!"