Merida is a 63-year-old small-scale farmer. She has five children ranging in age from 20 years old to 40 years old. Her husband passed away about six years ago. She shared that her children could not attend school beyond class five and that their responsibilities limit them from providing financial support. About ten years ago, Merida experienced swelling in her neck that increased in size over time. Merida is unable to bend down comfortably and experiences airway blockage when she carries heavy loads and has heaviness in her shoulders. She can also no longer breathe well while sleeping. She has used herbs for healing and recently visited the hospital at our medical partner, African Mission Healthcare (AMH). The doctors diagnosed her condition as a goiter, which is an abnormal enlargement of the thyroid gland. They recommended a thyroidectomy, which will address her symptoms and prevent the risk that the condition may become cancerous and cause difficulty breathing and eating over time. On November 9th, Merida will undergo a thyroidectomy at AMH’s care center. Surgeons will remove all or part of her thyroid gland. AMH is requesting $333 to fund Merida’s surgery. Merida shared, “I pray that I may be considered for treatment so that I may get relief from the swollen neck that I have carried for a very long time. I hope to look normal again and live a better, happy, and enjoyable life for the rest of my life. I will resume farming as soon as possible.”

Meet Ronaldo, a two-month-old infant from rural Guatemala. Ronaldo’s mother lives and works as a single mom, taking care of her son and younger brothers. Ronaldo's mother is unable to produce breastmilk to feed her baby, so Ronaldo is malnourished and small for his age. Ronaldo's mother supplements her baby's diet with warm rice water, which could create long-term health problems if Ronaldo is not fed necessary nutrients. Ronaldo's mother visited the local health center where she was referred to the nutrition program of our medical partner, Wuqu' Kawoq. Ronaldo was given formula, and a nutritionist is creating a nutrition plan to begin treating Ronaldo. Ronaldo's mother is unable to continue purchasing formula to help her son grow and develop, so she is very thankful for any support. Our medical partner requests $1,162 to supply Ronaldo with necessary treatment and to teach Ronaldo's mother how to provide a nutritious and inexpensive treatment for her son. He will begin treatment on June 15. Ronaldo’s mother says, “I dream for my son to grow well so that in the future he can study and become a teacher.”