For sixteen years, 50-year-old Zione has suffered from uncomfortable gynecological symptoms that have affected her quality of life and overall health. "The pain is too much for me," Zione said. "So I don't sleep and don't have the peace of mind I used to have before." Her worsening condition has required her family to miss work to care for her, impacting the family's already modest earnings. For years, she sought a diagnosis and treatment but was unable to get the help she needed. Recently, Zione was reviewed at our medical partner's care center, Partners in Hope Medical Center and was diagnosed with uterine fibroids. She needs to undergo a hysterectomy. Zione and her husband’s combined income, from her work as a small-scale farmer and his work as a welder, is not enough to cover the cost of her surgery. Our medical partner, African Mission Healthcare, is requesting $1,363 to fund Zione's surgery on October 2nd. After the treatment, Zione will finally have relief after years of pain, missed sleep, unsuccessful treatments, and interruptions to her life and work.

Jade is a 17-month-old baby girl from Bolivia. She lives with her mom, who used to work as a maid, her dad, who is a driver, and her older brother. Jade was born prematurely at 6 months 2 weeks, and spent four months in NICU; it was during this time that doctors informed her family that she would need heart surgery, but that they preferred to wait for her to grow. Jade has a cardiac condition called patent ductus arteriosus. A hole exists between two blood vessels next to her heart. This condition prevents Jade's blood from circulating properly, causing her weakness and leaving her at risk of heart failure if the condition goes untreated. On August 5th, she will undergo cardiac surgery at our medical partner's care center, Hospital del Niño Dr. Ovidio Aliaga Uría. During surgery, surgeons will sew the hole closed so that blood can no longer leak through it. Jade's family needs help to fund the costs of cardiac care and surgery. Our medical partner, International Cardiac Alliance, requests $1,500 to cover the cost of cardiac exams and diagnostics, surgical costs, follow-up care, and medications. Jade's mother shared, "I just pray my little daughter will have a successful surgery so she can have a happy life."

Saveoeun is a retired rice farmer from Prey Veng province. She is a 66-year-old woman and has four sons, one daughter, and 13 grandchildren. She lives with her husband and her oldest daughter, who is a farmer. During her free time, she likes to listen to monks pray on the radio. About one year ago, Saveoeun developed a cataract in her left eye, causing her itchiness, tearing, and blurry vision. A cataract is a clouding of the lens of the eye, so it is like looking through a frosty or fogged-up window. She has difficulty seeing things clearly, including colors and faces, and is worried about falling when walking, so she is not able to go places on her own. When Saveoeun learned about our medical partner, Children's Surgical Centre, she traveled for three hours seeking treatment. On May 11th, doctors will perform a phacoemulsification cataract surgery and an intraocular lens implant in her left eye. After recovery, she will be able to see clearly. She can contribute $50, but needs help raising $213 more to fund her procedure and care. Saveoeun said, "I hope after surgery, my eye can see better so I can easily go out and recognize people. I feel happy, and I want to grow vegetables around my home for selling."