Phelon is a young student from Kenya who wants to be a doctor when she grows up. She is the last born child in a family of three. Her mother, the only breadwinner in their family operates a printing kiosk in the capital, making about $5 daily. She cares for her children and her own siblings. In the second week of January, Phelon fell while playing with other children. Her right hand dislocated and by evening, it was swollen. She is not able to use her hand freely and she is in pain. Fortunately, surgeons at our medical partner can help. On February 3rd, Phelon will undergo a fracture repair procedure, called an open reduction and internal fixation. This procedure will help her use her hand again and continue with her studies. Now, our medical partner, African Mission Healthcare Foundation, is requesting $640 to fund this procedure. Phelon’s mother says, “My prayer, like any other mother, is to see my daughter heal and lead a normal life.”

San is a first grade student from Cambodia. He has one brother and two sisters. He likes to study mathematics and watch TV. Five years ago, he touched a boiling kettle and burned his fingers. Burn scar contractures have developed, tightening the skin around his burn. It is difficult for him to use his fingers. When San learned about our medical partner, Children's Surgical Centre, he traveled for two hours seeking treatment. On October 17, surgeons at CSC will perform a burn contracture release surgery to to help him use his finger again. Now, he needs help to fund this $448 procedure. His mother says, "I hope my son's surgery is successful."

Marcela is an 11-month-old baby girl from Guatemala. Her favorite foods are pasta, rice, and beans, and she loves playing with her cousin. Marcela was recently diagnosed with malnutrition, a condition that occurs from consuming too little protein, calories, and nutrients. In the short term, malnutrition means Marcela has little energy to grow, and that her immune system is weak, leaving her vulnerable to diseases that could further compromise her growth. If left untreated, she may also face the long-term consequences of malnutrition, such as increased risk of chronic illness and a lowered IQ. Concerned for her well-being, her mother took Marcela to our medical partner, Wuqu' Kawoq, for treatment. Beginning June 22, Marcela will receive micronutrients and food supplementation, as well as regular growth monitoring. Community health workers will also teach her mother how to create a nutrient rich diet using limited resources. The $492 requested will cover all expenses of her continued treatment, allowing her to gain weight, strengthen her immune system, and catch up with other children her age. "I am thankful to the program for the support we will get," says Marcela's mother. "I did not know that my child was malnourished, but now that I know, I will do all possible to help her recover a healthy weight.”