José is a six-year-old boy who lives in Colombia with his family. He is intelligent, sociable, and an affectionate child with a positive attitude toward interacting with those around him. He expresses interest in becoming a police officer when he grows up. When he was two months old, José developed a swelling near his umbilical area. Over time, he started experiencing discomfort and tenderness, especially during physical activities like playing and jumping, which has limited his full participation. José has been diagnosed with an umbilical hernia, which is a tissue bulge in the belly button area, that occurs due to a weak spot in the abdominal wall. Corrective surgery has been recommended to prevent possible future complications and ensure an adequate clinical outcome. Fortunately, on August 21st, José is scheduled to undergo repair surgery. Our medical partner is requesting $1,005 to fund José's surgery. Once completed, this procedure will hopefully allow him to live a healthier life. José's parents say: "We are very grateful for your support, and look forward to our son finding relief from the discomfort, and being able to fully enjoy his childhood, after treatment."

Sara is two years old and the youngest daughter in her family. Her mother, Esther, cleans at a lodge in Dedza. Sara's father works at a poultry company and earns very little. Sara was born with an umbilical hernia and was initially told that it would clear on its own as Sara grew. However, as time passed, the problem worsened. This has significantly affected Sara's family. Her mother, who is the breadwinner, spends most of her time and money taking Sara to the hospital to receive care instead of concentrating on her job, which supports their family. Sara used to be a smiling and active girl. Now, she frequently cries during swelling episodes and points to her tummy, saying, "Wawa," meaning pain. The family struggles financially and cannot manage to pay for Sara's surgery. Two years ago, Sara was diagnosed with an unobstructed umbilical hernia. Her mother, Esther, brought her to Dedza hospital to be seen by a visiting surgeon from Partners In Hope. It was determined that Sara needed surgery due to increased abdominal pressure with movement, which causes her extreme pain and could be fatal if left untreated. Fortunately, on January 13th, Sara will undergo hernia repair surgery at Partners in Hope Medical Center. Our medical partner, African Mission Healthcare, is requesting $575 to fund Sara's surgery. Once completed, this procedure will allow her to live more comfortably and confidently. Esther is very hopeful that surgery will help her daughter be well and give the family a chance to focus on their work. "I fear for my job due to my absenteeism at work as a result of frequent hospital visits with my child. Helping my child will allow me to concentrate on my job and care for my family," said Esther, Sara's mother.