Ricky is 51 years old and a forklift operator from the Philippines. He is the sole breadwinner for his family, earning through irregular employment. One of his children helps by working part-time as a package courier, while his youngest child is still in school. Four months ago, Ricky began to experience troubling symptoms, including difficulty passing stool, dizziness, frequent vomiting, and poor appetite. Ricky was diagnosed with gallstones and has been advised to undergo a cholecystectomy, the surgical removal of the gallbladder. If left untreated, his symptoms will continue to worsen and put her at risk for further health complications in the future. His medical condition causes severe pain that affects his ability to work, placing additional financial strain on his family. The family hopes he can receive surgery soon so he can recover, return to work, and continue providing for his loved ones. Ricky sought treatment through our medical partner, World Surgical Foundation Philippines (WSFP). He is scheduled to undergo a cholecystectomy on July 13th. A portion of the procedure's cost is being covered by the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, and WSFP is raising the remaining $1,031 to cover the cost of Ricky's surgery and care. Ricky shared, "I hope to recover soon so I can work without pain and continue providing for my family. This surgery would give us hope and ease the burden we have been carrying."

Luis Angel is student from Colombia. He is a very outgoing, cheerful, intelligent, and quick-witted boy who loves to explore the world around him. He is an excellent student and excels especially in math. He really enjoys playing and interacting with other children. He also loves to dance, sing and has a deep love for animals. He is an affectionate boy who constantly shows his care for others. Eight years ago, Luis Angel was diagnosed with an umbilical hernia, a condition in which a small portion of abdominal tissue protrudes through the navel. Umbilical hernias usually cause mild discomfort or tenderness around the navel, especially when the child cries, coughs, or strains. They can also cause visible swelling, making the belly button protrude, which sometimes leads to discomfort. At this stage, Luis Angel experiences abdominal pain, which sometimes makes it difficult for him to engage in activities, such as playing or participating in sports. Although it generally does not cause severe pain, it does cause discomfort that makes it difficult for him to perform daily activities, such as playing, jumping, and fully enjoying his childhood. Additionally, if not treated properly, there is a risk of complications. Fortunately, on June 24th, he will undergo repair surgery at our medical partner's care center. Our medical partner, Clinica Noel, is requesting $1,005 to fund Luis Angel's surgery. Once completed, this procedure will hopefully allow him to live more comfortably. Luis Angel's parent shared, "To anyone who wishes to support my son financially, I would like to begin by expressing my sincere gratitude for thinking of a child’s well-being and future. Your help contributes to making my son’s dreams come true and gives him the opportunity to achieve a better quality of life. After the surgery, we hope he will be able to develop fully, without limitations, discomfort, or pain that prevent him from carrying out his daily and athletic activities. With this, he will be able to demonstrate his full potential and begin to chart his path toward fulfilling his dreams."

Taung is a 64-year-old man from Burma. He lives with his daughter, son, and two grandsons. He is retired and helps with household chores to support his family. His daughter is divorced and raises chickens and pigs for their own consumption, selling the surplus to buy additional food and cover their basic needs. Each of his grandsons goes to middle school, while Taung's son has a mental illness and stays home. He also has another daughter who helps support him. His family has enough income for their basic needs and healthcare, but they have struggled to meet the financial obligations of Taung's needs. Currently, Taung is experiencing upper abdominal pain, and he feels discomfort when walking for long periods or sitting down. Eating to fill his stomach can also lead to discomfort, so he eats only in small quantities. After seeking medical help at our medical partner's care center, Mae Sot Hospital, the doctor has diagnosed Taung with a bile duct stone and has recommended surgery. Taung has been advised to undergo a cholecystectomy, the surgical removal of the gallbladder. If left untreated, Taung's symptoms will continue to worsen and put him at risk for further health complications in the future. Taung is scheduled to undergo his cholecystectomy on August 13th. Our medical partner, Burma Children Medical Fund, is requesting $1,500 to cover the total cost of his procedure and care. Taung said, "Due to my condition, I experience severe pain sometimes. I could not help much with household chores. When the pain is severe, I could not eat and could not sleep well. I want to recover, and then I would like to plant banana trees and other vegetables to sell and make income to support my family. Thank you to all the donors for helping me."