Steven is a 10-year-old fourth grade student from the Dominican Republic. He lives with his mother, brothers, and grandparents. His favorite subject in school is science, and he hopes to be a doctor one day. When not studying, Steven likes to play soccer with his brothers. Steven was was born with a cardiac condition called ventricular septal defect, in which a hole exists between the two lower chambers of his heart. As a result, blood leaks through this hole without first passing through the lungs to obtain oxygen, leaving Steven feeling sickly and weak. On February 7, Steven will visit our medical partner's care center, Hospital Pediatrico Robert Reid Cabral, for a cardiac assessment that includes exams, labs, and an overnight stay at the hospital. Our medical partner, Haiti Cardiac Alliance, is asking for $1,500 to fund his cardiac assessment, as well as his medications and social support. Gift of Life International is contributing $7,000 to cover additional costs associated with Steven's surgical care. "I am happy to have surgery so that afterward I will be able to run as fast as my oldest brother!" says Steven.