This is John, a newborn baby boy from Kenya and the only child to his young parents. His father runs a small business, while his mother stays at home. John was diagnosed with spina bifida, a developmental congenital disorder caused by the incomplete closing of the embryonic neural tube. As a result, he has a swelling on his lower back and is at high risk of contracting an infection or experiencing other spinal complications. Currently, John is at Bethany Kids Kijabe for specialized care; however, his parents do not have the money necessary for his treatment. Without our help to fund the proper closure of John's swelling, his condition can prove fatal. For $805, we can end this couple’s worries and ensure the future health of their baby. John's mother says, "I was very scared when I was told that my son would need surgery so soon. I am, however, happy that this condition can be treated, and he will be able to have a normal life."

Zin Oo is just six-years-old and has already experienced a great deal. Zin Oo is being raised by his single mother, who works as a day labor in Burma’s northeastern Shan State. In 2013 Zin Oo’s family was forced to flee from their home as a result of anti-Muslim violence in their region. They lived in an IDP camp until the situation settled. The family has since moved back to the home which Zin Oo shares with his mother, aunt, uncle, grandfather, and three cousins. When Zin Oo was two-years-old he broke his left leg. Since then, two flawed surgeries have failed to properly heal him and as a result, his left leg is shorter than the right. Due to his condition, Zin Oo cannot walk on his own, and he hasn’t started school. His mother must carry Zin Oo everywhere she goes, including to work, making normal life very difficult for both of them. His mother cannot afford another corrective surgery. Zin Oo needs a comprehensive and effective surgery to once and for all properly repair the damage done to his leg. $1500 is all Zin Oo needs for this vital surgery that would enable him to walk on his own and attend school, thereby allowing his mother to continue her work and be relived of worry about Zin Oo’s health. Let’s help Zin Oo get better so he can get out and join his peers in school and in play!