Cherrylyn is a mother of three from the Philippines. Cherrylyn resides in Binan, Laguna. Her husband works as a helper and earns $16 per week, which is insufficient to meet their daily needs. Her children are all old enough to work now, however, their educational attainment makes it hard for them to find a permanent job. Cherrylyn enjoys doing laundry and engaging in water-related activities when she was stronger. Lately, she enjoys joining the free Zumba classes offered by the barangay. However, she eventually has had to stop because of her condition. Seven years ago, Cherrylyn began to experience troubling symptoms, including back, flank, and abdominal pain, which affected her daily activities. She typically takes various pain relievers to alleviate the pain. Sometimes, she endures the pain or her spouse will try to give her massages to ease her discomfort. Cherrylyn has been advised to undergo a cholecystectomy, the surgical removal of the gallbladder. If left untreated, her symptoms will continue to worsen and put her at risk for further health complications in the future. After seeking treatment through our medical partner, World Surgical Foundation Philippines (WSFP), Cherrylyn is scheduled to undergo a cholecystectomy on January 13th. The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation is supporting a portion of the cost of the procedure, and WSFP is raising the remaining $1,128 to cover the cost of Cherrylyn's surgery and care. Cherrylyn says, "I am very grateful to everyone for your generosity. We will only be able to afford this operation with you. I trust that the Lord will return this blessing you gave me."

Srey Fa is a 7-year-old 2nd grader who lives in Svay Rieng province with her parents and two siblings. Her father works as a tuk tuk driver, and her mom sells groceries from a street side stall. Srey Fa is the youngest in the family and loves playing with her siblings and neighbors in the village. Her favorite subjects are Art and English. In the future, she would like to be an accountant or a teacher. Around four years ago, Srey Fa has been experiencing a sore throat and difficulty swallowing. She often misses school and skips meals due to the pain. Srey Fa was recently diagnosed with enlarged tonsils and adenoids, which, if not treated, will cause her symptoms to persist and possibly intensify over time. Our medical partner, Children's Surgical Centre, is requesting $265 to fund a tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy for Srey Fa, which is scheduled to take place on February 7th. Surgeons will remove her tonsils and adenoids, hopefully relieving Srey Fa of her symptoms and helping her live much more comfortably. Her mother said, "I hope my daughter can breathe easier and stop the infections so she can stay in school."

Vastine is a small scale farmer from Uganda. She is 39 years old and is currently expecting her fifth child. Vastine completed her primary education but, due to financial constraints, could not pursue further studies. During holidays, she decided to marry. As the eldest of seven siblings, all of whom are married except one engaged in casual labor. Vastine is from a farming family with both parents still actively involved in agriculture. Her husband, a casual worker in town, strives to support the family financially. Although limited by resources, she has a particular interest in poultry, maintaining a modest flock of approximately five hens. During her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family. Vastine presented herself at the antenatal clinic. Her first two births occurred in 2007 and 2010, both via C-section. Subsequently, in 2013 and 2017, she experienced miscarriages. In 2015, she successfully delivered her third child naturally, and in 2020, she had her last child through another C-section. Throughout her current pregnancy, she has diligently attended antenatal clinics at Nyakibale Hospital seven times for the comprehensive care package. Her doctors recommend that she deliver via a caesarean section because this is a high-risk pregnancy. This way, doctors can ensure the safety of both mother and child. Our medical partner, African Mission Healthcare, is helping Vastine undergo a C-Section on December 1st. This procedure will cost $252, and Vastine needs your support to ensure a safe delivery. Vastine says, “I wish I can deliver my baby alive and in good health under the support of the donors. I cannot afford the bills for this surgery on my own.”