Gutema is a 23-year-old man from Ethiopia, married with one daughter. He works as a day laborer, a physically demanding job that requires him to use his full strength and mobility every day, typically at construction sites. Recently, Gutema was diagnosed with a severe infection in his thighbone that causes painful swelling. This condition has left him unable to perform the physical tasks his work demands. Because his income depends entirely on his ability to work each day, his family is now in a challenging situation. Without his mobility, his livelihood and his family’s stability is now at serious risk. The bone infection also causes him intense pain. Following Gutema's review at our medical partner's care center Saglan Wajee General Hospital, doctors have recommended that he undergoes a sequestrectomy, a surgical procedure involving the removal of fragments of infected dead bone or tissue. If not treated, it can lead to recurrent infections that may result in life-threatening complications. Fortunately, on June 4th, Gutema will undergo repair surgery at our medical partner's care center. Our medical partner, Saglan Wajee General Hospital, is requesting $900 to fund Gutema's surgery. Once completed, this procedure will alleviate his symptoms and prevent serious long-term complications. "My family cannot afford to lose my ability to work, as I am responsible for everything in our home. The pain and the stress of not being able to provide for them is overwhelming. This surgery is the key to saving my livelihood," said Gutema.

Piseth is a 16-year-old boy from Cambodia. He lives in Kratie Province with his parents, who support the family through rice farming and day labor. He is the oldest of two children, and his younger sister is in Grade 8. Although he is no longer attending school, he enjoys spending time with friends and playing football in his village. His favorite meal is Korko fish soup. On February 26th, 2026, Piseth was involved in a car-motorcycle accident that caused a closed fracture of his left distal femur. He was taken to a hospital and was told he needed surgery, but his family could not afford the operation. He later received treatment from a traditional healer, who used a bamboo splint to support his injured leg. Unfortunately, the fracture did not heal properly and developed into a non-union, leaving his left leg approximately 4 centimeters shorter. The unhealed fracture has continued to cause pain and abnormal movement in his left thigh, making it difficult for him to walk and stand comfortably. He also has a small superficial wound near his left ankle. Piseth was referred to our medical partner, Children’s Surgical Centre, for further care. On September 9th, he is scheduled to undergo a left femur osteotomy and placement of a traction pin. The surgery aims to address the abnormal bone position and shortening and support the healing of his leg, with the hope of improving his mobility and independence. Piseth's mother said, “I hope this surgery will help my son’s leg heal properly, reduce his pain, and make it easier for him to walk and stand. I want him to become more independent and return to his normal daily activities.”

Sarey is a 20-year-old rubber farmer from Cambodia. He lives with his parents and five younger siblings. His parents work as day laborers on a rubber farm, and all his younger siblings are still students. In his free time, he enjoys playing volleyball with his friends in the village. On May 16, 2026, Sarey was riding his motorbike when it overturned at a corner, injuring his right shoulder. He was unconscious for approximately three days and received treatment for one week. However, his condition did not improve, and he was discharged and returned home. He continued to experience difficulties moving his right arm and later came to our medical partner, Children’s Surgical Centre (CSC), for further investigation and treatment. He has been diagnosed with a brachial plexus injury on his right side. The brachial plexus is a nerve network that transmits signals from the spine to the shoulder, arm, and hand. Injuries to this nerve network can result in loss of function and sensation. This has left him unable to raise or move his right arm. He also experiences nerve pain and reduced sensation from below his elbow to his hand, as well as drooping of his right eyelid. These difficulties affect his ability to carry out everyday activities and limit his independence. On October 21st, Sarey will undergo brachial plexus repair surgery. After recovery, he will hopefully be able to regain some movement in his right arm, use his shoulder and elbow more effectively, and perform daily activities with greater independence. He also hopes to return to playing volleyball with his friends. Sarey can contribute $100, but needs help raising $637 more to fund his procedure and care. Sarey said, “Since my injury, I haven’t been able to use my right arm as before, and the nerve pain makes daily life difficult. I hope this treatment will help me regain movement and become more independent so I can return to my usual activities.”