John is a 2-month-old baby from Tanzania. He resides in a modest home with his parents and two siblings. His mother is a devoted stay-at-home mother, while his father works as a carpenter. His father’s income is enough to cover the family’s basic needs. After John's birth, the doctors realized he was born with a congenital condition and advised his mother to seek specialized care. His right foot was twisted inward and downward. They started him on casting at the hospital for three weeks, hoping it might help him heal. However, it became apparent that his condition was more complex and would require surgical intervention as the only viable option to give John a chance at a more mobile and fulfilling life. However, the financial burden proved to be overwhelming for John’s family. Living on a modest income, they could not afford the surgical treatment cost. They had to make a hard decision to stop their son’s treatment. Sometime after discontinuing their son’s treatment, John’s mother learned about our medical partner the Plaster House and the services it provides. Fueled by love and hope for her son, she sought assistance from the center. John underwent a comprehensive wellness assessment; however, the family cannot raise money for his treatment and is appealing for financial assistance. John has clubfoot on his right foot. Clubfoot is a condition in which the foot is twisted out of shape. This causes difficulty walking and even wearing shoes. The Plaster House team will begin clubfoot treatment on September 19. Our medical partner, African Mission Healthcare, is requesting $935 to fund John's clubfoot repair. After treatment and as he grows he will be able to walk comfortably, wear shoes, enjoy playtime with his peers, and reassure his parents that their son is free from disability. John’s mother says: “I hope my son’s treatment will be smooth and he will turn out okay after his treatment.”

Moeung is a 78-year-old, retired rice farmer from Prey Veng province in Cambodia. He has a daughter, two sons, and seven grandchildren. Currently, he resides with his wife and youngest daughter, who sells Khmer cakes. One of his favorite activities is attending religious ceremonies at the pagoda alongside his wife. About one year ago, Moeung developed a cataract in his right eye, causing him great discomfort and blurred vision. As a result of the cataract, Moeung is reluctant to go out on his own, and he is no longer able to read his favorite books. When Moeung learned about our medical partner, Children's Surgical Centre, he traveled for three hours to seek treatment. On May 9th, doctors at Kien Khleang National Rehabilitation Centre will perform small incision cataract surgery and implant an intraocular lens in his right eye. After he has recovered, Moeung will be able to see clearly, go out on his own, and return to reading his books. Now, he needs your help to fund this $253 procedure. Moeung said: "I hope after surgery I can see better, and join ceremonies with my wife."

Lemurwa is a 15 year old student living in Kiserian, Arusha in Tanzania, with his parents and three siblings. His father works as a farmer and cattle breeder, and his mother is a dedicated homemaker, responsible for caring for the children and assisting with the milking of the cows. Lemurwa was diagnosed with acquired right genu valgus, a condition caused by the accumulation of excess fluoride in the bones, which results from drinking contaminated water. His right leg exhibits a more severe deformity compared to his left leg, leading to persistent swelling whenever he walks. Lemurwa has been suffering from this progressive knee deformity since the age of three, and things have only worsened over time. His condition limits his mobility and causes significant pain, making it challenging for him to walk long distances and to perform essential tasks, such as helping his family in herding cattle. Our medical partner, African Mission Healthcare, is requesting $880 to fund corrective surgery for Lemurwa. The procedure is scheduled to take place on May 26th at Arusha Lutheran Medical Center. Treatment should restore Lemurwa's mobility, allowing him to participate in a variety of activities, and greatly decreasing his risk of future complications. Lemurwa says: "I hope that after this treatment I will be able to help out at home and that my leg will not be a barrier to my day-to-day life."