Aung is a nine months old baby boy from Burma. He lives with his parents, grandparents, aunt, uncle, and two elder sisters. His father works as a day laborer, while his mother takes care of the household. They also run a small farm where they grow rice for both their family to eat and to earn an income. However, their monthly earning is insufficient to cover their basic living costs and Aung's medical expenses. As a result, they are indebted. Aung was born at home with the assistance of a midwife. Neither the midwife nor the mother noticed any abnormalities at that time. However, the day after his birth, Aung's grandmother observed swelling in his left foot and genitals, as well as a mass on his right flank. Last May, Aung and his mother sought treatment at the public hospital in Yangon, where he was admitted. There, he underwent tests, including hormone evaluations, along with multiple X-rays of his chest, abdomen, pelvis, and both legs. The doctor informed his mother that a rare congenital condition was suspected, and that amputation might be necessary if there were any changes in his leg color or when he reached six months of age to prevent complications. Oral medications and bi-weekly follow-up appointments were provided. Over time, Aung's leg and scrotum swelling worsened. However, due to ongoing conflict near their village and financial constraints, Aung's parents were unable to attend further follow-up appointments. Doctors now want Aung to undergo an MRI, an imaging procedure that uses magnetic fields and radio waves to produce images of bodily organs. This scan will hopefully help doctors diagnose his condition and formulate an appropriate treatment plan. Our medical partner, Burma Children Medical Fund, is requesting $968 to cover the cost of Aung's MRI and care, scheduled for January 26th. Aung's mother expressed, "I hope to witness my son's full recovery. His condition brings me immense sorrow, and I do not know why this has happened to him. I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to BCMF and the donors for helping my son. Once he receives complete treatment, my wish is for him to excel in his education and achieve success in life."

Christopher, who is 12 years old, lives with his parents and three siblings in a small fishing village in southwest Haiti. As a young child, Christopher suffered from a bout of rheumatic fever, which severely damaged one of his heart valves. As a result, it is difficult for his heart to efficiently pump blood through his body. The Gift of Life International will be subsidizing Christopher's heart surgery, which is scheduled to take place on February 5th, at Welcare Hospital. During this procedure, surgeons will remove the damaged valve, and implant an artificial replacement. Our medical partner, International Cardiac Alliance, is requesting $1,500 to fund the preoperative testing that Christopher will need, his post-operative care, and the travel expenses for Christopher and his family. Christopher shared: "I am very excited to have a healthy heart after waiting for so long!"

Ravin is a 13-year-old monk from Prey Veng province where his father is a construction worker and his mother is a homemaker. He has two younger brothers - a 6-year-old in grade one, and a 2-year-old not yet in school who stays home with their mother. He resides in the local temple, learning chanting, meditation, and the study of religious texts. When Ravin was just one year old, an unfortunate incident occurred where he accidentally plunged his hand into a fire, resulting in severe burns to his right hand and wrist. He had medical care at a nearby children's hospital. However, when he and his family returned for follow-up care, they faced a setback. The crucial paperwork from his initial treatment had gone missing, leading to a situation where the hospital declined to proceed with any additional necessary surgeries. He suffers from burn scar contracture on his right wrist which are deviated to the ulnar side, meaning his fingers are bent toward his little finger. His right fingers are webbed and he is unable to write, or grasp objects with his right hand. When Ravin learned about our medical partner, Children's Surgical Centre, he traveled for three hours seeking treatment. On January 29th, surgeons at CSC will perform a burn contracture release surgery to to help him use his hand again. Now, he needs help to fund this $495 procedure. Ravin said: "I hope my hand will be better and I can use my hand for writing after my surgery."