Vun is a 38-year-old construction worker from Kampong Cham, Cambodia. He lives with his wife, who grows cassava, and their two school-aged children. As the family's primary income earner, he works long hours performing physically demanding construction work while also helping his wife on the farm whenever possible. About two months ago, Vun began experiencing severe lower back pain that radiated down his left leg. The pain gradually worsened and became especially severe during the past week, making it difficult for him to walk, stand for long periods, and continue working. A CT scan revealed a large herniated disc between the L5 and S1 vertebrae, compressing the nerve. After learning about our medical partner, Children's Surgical Centre (CSC), he traveled two hours to reach the hospital and seek specialized care. On July 17th, he will undergo an L5–S1 discectomy (spinal surgery) at CSC to remove the damaged disc and relieve pressure on the affected nerve. The surgery is expected to reduce his pain, restore his mobility, and help him return to work and support his family. However, the cost of treatment is beyond what his family can afford, and he needs financial assistance to receive this life-changing surgery. They can contribute $100, but need help raising $1,500 more to help fund his procedure and care. Vun said, “I hope this surgery will take away the pain that has made even simple movements difficult. I look forward to walking normally again, returning to work, and providing for my family without being limited by my back.”

Kelemua is a hardworking widow from Ethiopia who, at 80 years old, still supports her five sons by farming the land. However, she is losing her independence because of severe cataracts. Her vision is severely clouded, causing light sensitivity and making it difficult for her to move around safely. Her daily farm work and household chores now pose a risk of injury with her limited eyesight. And she is no longer able to contribute to the family’s income or do the work she loves. Two years ago, Kelemua developed a cataract in both eyes, causing her pain, blurry vision, and tearing. A cataract is a clouding of the lens of the eye, blurring vision. She has difficulty seeing things clearly, recognizing faces, and going anywhere outside. Fortunately, Kelemua is scheduled to undergo cataract surgery on June 10th, when surgeons will remove and replace the blurred lens in both eyes. After recovery, she will be able to see clearly and resume her daily activities. Our medical partner, Saglan Wajee General Hospital, is requesting $300 to fund her procedure. "My greatest hope is to regain my sight so I can move around safely again. I miss working on the farm and helping out at home, and I want to get back to contributing to my family’s life," said Kelemua.

Much is required of Sittie's mother, who works, raises her children, and carefully tries to manage her daughter's complicated health condition. Born with Hirschsprung's Disease, Sittie's condition prevents normal muscle contractions in the large intestine, causing her to experience complete or partial intestinal blockages. Uncomfortable and difficult to manage, the condition also carries the risk of life-threatening Hirschsprung-Associated Enterocolitis (HAEC), malnutrition, and other complications. The condition is especially dangerous, given the family's lack of reliable income and accessible healthcare. But with the help of our medical partner, World Surgical Foundation Philippines (WSFP), Sittie is scheduled to undergo surgery on October 22nd at Our Lady of Peace Hospital. Government insurance will cover a portion of the treatment cost, and WSFP is requesting an additional $1,123 to help fund Sittie's care and recovery. After treatment, Sittie will no longer experience the challenges of Hirschsprung's Disease, allowing her and her family to spend more time together and less time managing a chronic health condition. You can help with 100% of your contribution going to Sittie's treatment. Choose a donation amount, or fully fund her treatment.