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.”

Jesus is a 12-year-old student from Colombia. He is a calm boy, and like all children, can be mischievous at times, but overall is very easygoing. He enjoys video games and playing soccer. When he grows up, he wants to be a soccer player and play in the World Cup, just like Cristiano Ronaldo. Jesus has an inguinal hernia, a protrusion of abdominal contents through the inguinal canal. Surgery has been recommended to correct it and prevent possible future complications. This condition causes pain, which worsens with physical activity and may limit his movements. Fortunately, on July 28th, Jesus will undergo repair surgery, and our medical partner, Clinica Noel, is requesting $1,005 to fund Jesus's surgery. Once completed, this procedure should allow him to live more comfortably. Jesus's parents said, "We would like to express our deepest and most sincere gratitude for the invaluable support you provided by making our son’s hernia surgery possible. Your generosity touched our lives at a time of uncertainty and worry, becoming a true act of love, solidarity, and hope."

Ouksa is a 19-year-old rice farmer from Cambodia. He is married and currently lives with his wife and parents. The entire family works to farm rice for a living. Ouksa enjoys playing volleyball with his friends in the village during his free time. About three years ago, Ouksa was bitten by a snake on his left hand. He received treatment at a local hospital and was later transferred to another facility for wound debridement. Although the wound healed, he developed a scar contracture affecting his left wrist and hand. The scar contracture limits the movement of his left wrist and makes it difficult for him to use his dominant hand for daily activities and farming. This affects his ability to work comfortably and independently. Fortunately, our medical partner, Children's Surgical Centre, is helping Ouksa with his treatment. On August 13th, surgeons at their care center will perform a contracture release surgery to improve the movement and function of his left wrist and hand, making it easier for him to return to his normal daily life. His family can contribute $25, but needs help raising $547 more to fund his procedure and care. Ouksa said, “I hope the surgery will improve the movement and function of my left hand so I can return to farming, do my daily activities more easily, and use my hand independently again.”