Girdhari is a 35-year-old auto-rickshaw driver from India. He lives with his wife, three children, parents, and siblings. He shares a close bond with his parents and siblings and takes pride in contributing to the household through his work as an auto-rickshaw driver. About a year and a half ago, Girdhari sustained severe burn injuries in a workplace accident. While working as a cook, hot oil spilled onto a stove and triggered a sudden fire, leaving his legs badly burned. He was treated at a local hospital, but did not receive the specialized burn care needed for proper healing. Over time, this has led to serious complications — his feet have developed contractures, leaving them tilted and making walking painful and difficult. Girdhari now requires corrective surgery and rehabilitation to restore function and improve his quality of life. With timely medical intervention, he has a strong chance of regaining better mobility and continuing to support his family. Fortunately, on April 23rd, our medical partner, GS Memorial Plastic Surgery Hospital and Trauma Center, will help Girdhari undergo burn contracture release surgery to restore movement and improve his quality of life. Girdhari is receiving support from G.S. Memorial Trust, but needs help raising $726 more to fund their procedure and care. Girdhari said, "After this surgery, I am hopeful to fully recover and regain my mobility. That way, I can feel confident to seek out more job opportunities to support my family."

Bernardo is 65-year-old grandfather from the Philippines. He and his wife rely on the modest income from their small sari-sari store to support their household. He enjoys watching videos on his cellphone and cherishes spending time with his grandson, who brings him so much joy. Before his health issues worsened, Bernardo was working hard on becoming more physically active so that he can be present for his grandson. About eighteen months ago, Bernardo began to experience the symptoms of an inguinal hernia. These symptoms have escalated over time, causing him excruciating abdominal pain that has rendering him immobile. This pain interferes with his daily activities, his time with his grandson, and his goal to become healthier. Fortunately, on August 6th, Bernardo will undergo hernia repair surgery at our medical partner's care center, Our Lady of Peace Hospital. A portion of the cost of Bernardo's treatment is being supported by the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation. Our medical partner is raising the remaining $1,038 to cover the cost of his surgery and care. Once completed, this procedure will hopefully allow him to live more comfortably and confidently. He will be able to continue caring for his family and enjoy more time with his grandchild. Bernardo shared, “I am grateful for the opportunity to receive free surgery. I look forward to recovering so I can stay active, care for my grandchild, and spend more quality time with my family.”

Wadley is a seven-year-old boy who lives with his parents and older brother in Port-au-Prince, Haiti. His parents are both vendors. Wadley does not currently go to school due to his illness. He likes watching cartoons and listening to music. Wadley was born with a cardiac condition called double outlet right ventricle. A major artery connects to his heart at an abnormal location, preventing blood from circulating properly through his heart and body. This condition causes weakness and exhaustion and can lead to heart failure if untreated. Wadley needs to fly to the Dominican Republic to receive treatment. On June 26th, he will undergo heart surgery, during which doctors will detach the artery from his heart and reconnect it at the appropriate position. Another organization is paying for the surgery. But Wadley’s family also needs help to fund the costs of care before and after surgery. Our medical partner, International Cardiac Alliance, is requesting $1,500 to cover labs, medicines, and check-up and follow-up appointments. It also supports securing travel documents for the family and travel costs for the social workers from our medical partner, who will accompany Wadley's family overseas. Wadley’s mother shares, “Our family has been praying for this surgery to be possible for many years, and our prayers are finally being answered!”