Enock is an elderly man from Lilongwe District in Malawi. He is a retired carpenter, who used his skills to build a two-bedroomed house that he rents out for income. He says he is lucky to have a wife who supports him, and grandchildren who keep him on his feet. Two months ago, Enock started experiencing painful urination followed by what felt like a closure of the urethra and he could not pass urine or stool. He sought medical help at a local hospital where he was diagnosed with an enlarged prostate and a catheter was placed. He was given a follow up appointment for five months later and that is when he decided to visit our medical partner's care center Nkhoma Hospital. The diagnosis was confirmed and an open prostatectomy was recommended, which is surgery to remove part or all of the prostate. Unfortunately, Enock is unable to pay the total cost of treatment. Our medical partner, African Mission Healthcare, is helping Enock receive treatment. On June 6th, surgeons at Nkhoma Hospital will perform a prostatectomy, relieving him of his symptoms and improving his quality of life. Enock is able to contribute $57.77 towards the cost of his treatment and needs help raising $530 more to fund the procedure. Enock says, " I am hopeful that the surgery will provide me relief and I will be able to function normally again.”

Gabriel is a two-year-old toddler from Malawi. His parents manage a homestead from which they earn income to support their family. They grow vegetables such as mustard, Irish potatoes, and maize, which they sell to merchants from time to time. Since he was five months old, Gabriel has had an inguinal hernia. This occurs when tissue, such as part of the intestine, protrudes through a weak spot in the abdominal muscles, typically in the groin area. This causes pain and other symptoms like fever, weakness, and vomiting. Fortunately, Gabriel is scheduled to undergo hernia repair surgery on September 3rd. Our medical partner, African Mission Healthcare, is requesting $421 to cover the cost of Gabriel's surgery. Once completed, this procedure will hopefully relieve his pain and allow Gabriel to live more comfortably. Gabriel’s father says, “I would really like to experience a changed attitude from him from a crying child to a much happier child after surgery.”

Cho is a 16-year-old girl from Thailand. She lives with her mother, stepsister, and half-sister. She unfortunately did not complete her studies due to financial constraints. In her free time, Cho enjoys playing games, painting and watching YouTube videos. Cho was diagnosed with a heart condition that requires valve replacement. Heart valves control the flow of blood between chambers, but certain conditions may narrow the heart valve or cause the blood to flow backwards. Normal valve function is necessary to prevent long term damage to the heart and lungs. Cho has been experiencing symptoms like chest pain, fatigue, and difficulty in breathing. Her symptoms worsen when she is involved in activity, but lessen during rest. She also feels pain in her jaw, neck, and the arm where she receives intravenous antibiotics multiple times a day. Our medical partner, Burma Children Medical Fund, is requesting $1,500 to fund a heart valve replacement for Cho. The treatment is scheduled to take place on August 6th at Kasemrad Prachachuen Hospital, and once completed, will hopefully allow her to live more comfortably. Cho's mother says, "My daughter wants to continue her studies, but I can't afford her school fees. She has offered to return to work after full recovery, to help support our family."