Chanthorn is a 41-year-old chef from Cambodia. He lives in Kandal Province with his brother, who works as a chef for weddings. They support each other, earning money to care for their elderly mother, who is 76 years old. His father passed away 30 years ago. In his free time, he enjoys planting vegetables around his home. In February 2015, Chanthorn sustained an electric shock injury to his left shoulder, causing severe damage to the shoulder joint. He underwent surgery to stabilize the injury with screws, but later developed an infection that required removal of the hardware. He has experienced chronic pain and stiffness in his left shoulder for many years. The condition limits his shoulder movement and makes it difficult for him to use his arm comfortably during daily activities and while working as a chef. When Chanthorn learned about our medical partner, Children's Surgical Centre (CSC), he traveled for four hours seeking treatment. On July 20th, surgeons at CSC will perform a joint arthrodesis procedure to fuse his left shoulder joint and to help him to use his arm more comfortably and continue his daily activities and work more easily. Chanthorn is contributing towards the cost of his treatment, but needs help raising $561 more to fund the surgery. He says, “I have lived with shoulder pain for many years. I hope this surgery will reduce my pain, help me use my arm more comfortably, and allow me to return to my daily activities without constant discomfort.”

Medekse is a mother of five from Ethiopia. She is a widow and lives in a busy home with her five grown children—her two sons and three daughters. They all live together so they can take turns looking after her, cooking her meals, and making sure she is safe. Four years ago, Medekse developed a cataract in her left eye, causing her reduced vision and cloudy vision. A cataract is a clouding of the lens of the eye, blurring vision. Because she cannot see well, simple tasks and moving around her own home have become very difficult. For a woman who spent her life being independent, it is hard to accept that she now must rely on her children for daily help. She is currently trying her best to adapt, searching for a balance between her desire to do things on her own and her need for her family's support. Fortunately, on July 15th, Medekse is scheduled to undergo cataract surgery with the help of our medical partner, Saglan Wajee General Hospital. Surgeons will remove and replace the blurred lens. After recovery, she will be able to see clearly. Now, she needs help to raise $150 to fund this procedure. Medekse shared, "I hope to spend my later years moving around easily, seeing clearly, and living comfortably." After a lifetime of leading and caring for her family, she has earned the right to keep her independence and live on her own terms.

Anamiel is a cheerful and playful 14-month-old boy from Ethiopia. He loves playing football, spending time with other children, and watching animated movies. His lively personality and curiosity bring joy to his family. He lives with his parents, who work hard to support their family. His mother is a homemaker, while his father works as a driver. Anamiel was born with hypospadias, a condition that causes urinary dysfunction. Without treatment, he will continue to experience uncomfortable symptoms and will be at risk of future complications. Fortunately, our medical partner, African Mission Healthcare, can help. Anamiel is scheduled to undergo corrective surgery on October 20th. He and his family need help raising $1,293 to cover the cost of his procedure and care. Anamiel’s mother shared, “I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude for the wonderful care and support you have provided to my child. Thank you for making such a positive difference in our lives. May God richly bless you all for your kindness, generosity, and dedication to helping children and their families.”