Nai is a pepper farmer from Cambodia. She has three sons, two daughters, and six grandchildren. She likes to read and watch Indian dramas in her free time. Two years ago, Nai developed a pterygium in both eyes, causing her blurry vision, tearing, irritation, and photophobia. Pterygiums are non-cancerous growths of the conjunctiva, a mucous layer that lubricates the eye. The growths occur when the conjunctiva is exposed to excessive sun damage and the cells grow abnormally over the pupil. She has difficulty seeing things clearly, recognizing faces, working, and going anywhere outside. When Nai learned about our medical partner, Children's Surgical Centre, she traveled for two hours seeking treatment. Nai needs a surgical procedure to remove the abnormal conjunctiva from the cornea surface and replace it with a conjunctival graft to prevent recurrence. The total cost of her procedure is $201. This covers medications, supplies, and inpatient care for two days. The procedure is scheduled for November 5. She says, "I hope I can return to work after the operation and be able to lead an independent life."

Gabriel is a three-week-old boy from Kenya. He is the only child of his young parents, both of whom are farmers. Gabriel was born with a large head size compared to his body, a condition determined to be hydrocephalus. This has caused excessive buildup of cerebral spinal fluid and has the potential for severe brain damage. Gabriel’s head has continued growing in size, leaving him irritable and uncomfortable. Both his parents have no external source of income and are unable to provide the funds for his treatment. Our medical partner, African Mission Healthcare Foundation, is requesting $685 to fund Gabriel's care. On January 19, he will undergo a shunt insertion surgery to drain the fluid from his brain. His parents are grateful to have found our medical partner and hope that their son can enjoy a happy start to his young life. "I am glad to have found a place where Gabriel can be treated," says his mother.