Andrew is a 32-year-old, energetic businessman from Malawi who is married with two sons. He sells fish in a nearby market and lives with his family in a rented 2-bedroom house. His wife is a homemaker, and his children are students in primary school.
While selling fish at the market last year, Andrew experienced sharp pain and swelling that slowly decreased but soon became a recurring experience. He visited a traditional healer and then the local health center, where he was diagnosed with an inguinal hernia and referred to the hospital for surgical review. Andrew was placed on a long surgery waitlist, but when the pain became so severe that he could no longer work, his sister informed him about the care center with our medical partner, African Mission Healthcare (AMH).
Surgeons at AMH confirmed Andrew’s diagnosis of an inguinal hernia, which is a condition that occurs when the intestines or fat from the abdomen protrudes through the abdominal wall. Complications can include bowel obstruction and strangulation, which may be fatal if not surgically repaired. Fortunately, on October 26th, Andrew will undergo reparative surgery. AMH is requesting $575 to help fund this procedure, which is also subsidized by Andrew’s co-pay that he was able to gather.
Andrew is hopeful that surgery will significantly improve his quality of life and reduce his pain and discomfort. He shared, “I hope that I will be able to concentrate on my business after the surgery. I want to see my children excel in school, and I need to provide for them.”
