Theam is a 52-year-old mother of two from Cambodia. She lives in Kandal province with her husband, who works in construction, and her two daughters, one of whom is married, and the other who is at school in Grade 11. Theam sells noodles near the local market and also raises chickens so she can sell eggs at the markets. Eleven years ago, Theam was in a motorbike accident and lost consciousness. Since that time, she has suffered from ear infections from a perforated ear drum, and she has regular discharge from her left ear. As a result, Theam experiences ear pain, ringing in the ears, and headaches, including chronic drainage from her ear. It is difficult for her to sleep, and her hearing suffers. Theam traveled to our medical partner's care center to receive treatment. On February 15th, she will undergo a procedure to repair the hole in her left ear. Our medical partner, Children's Surgical Centre, is requesting $487 to fund this procedure which will cover medications, supplies, and inpatient care. Theam's husband said: "We really hope for this treatment so Theam will have a healthy ear, stop ear discharge or infection, and can improve hearing as well."

Saream lives in Cambodia with her niece's family. Her niece and husband work as grocery sellers in the village, while Saream stays home as a caretaker. In her free time, she likes listening to Cambodian traditional music and cooking. Saream and her niece traveled two hours to reach the Children's Surgical Centre for consultation regarding scar tissue contractures on her ankle. Due to the swelling and restriction of movement, Saream finds it difficult to walk and get housework done. On March 4th, Saream will have a contracture release surgery. This surgery will improve her mobility and ability to carry out everyday tasks at home. Now, the family needs help to fund the $487 procedure, including post-op care and physiotherapy. Saream shared, "I hope I can fix this problem and be able to take care of my family."

Alexander is a 7 year-old student from Haiti. Alexander lives with his parents and younger sister in a small rural community. He is in the first grade and likes going to school and helping his family with farm chores. Alexander has a cardiac condition called double ventricular septal defect. Two holes exist between the two lower chambers of his heart; blood leaks through these holes without passing through Alexander's lungs to obtain oxygen, leaving him weak and short of breath. Alexander will need to travel to the Dominican Republic to receive treatment. On January 30th, he will undergo cardiac surgery, during which surgeons will sew patches over the holes so that blood can no longer leak through them. Alexander's family also needs help to fund the costs of surgery prep and follow-up. The $1,500 bill covers labs, medicines, and checkup and followup appointments. It also supports passport obtainment and the social workers from our medical partner, Haiti Cardiac Alliance, who will accompany Alexander's family. Alexander's mother shares: "Our family feels very blessed to know that our son can have this chance for surgery!"