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.”

Beatrice is 45 years old and a mother of two from Malawi. She is a widow and sells second-hand clothing to support her family. Through determination and hard work, she managed to sustain her household despite many challenges. However, a long battle with uterine fibroids has now left her fighting not only for her livelihood but also for her health and survival. Before her illness, Beatrice enjoyed an active and productive life. She took pride in her small business and supported herself through her daily efforts. In 2013, Beatrice started to experience heavy bleeding, severe headaches, and persistent back pain. The symptoms progressively worsened, causing great concern and affecting her quality of life. Seeking medical help, Beatrice visited a hospital, where a scan revealed uterine fibroids. She underwent a myomectomy to remove the fibroids, offering relief from her symptoms. For nearly ten years, she lived comfortably and continued supporting herself through her business. Unfortunately, in 2024, her symptoms returned. She was bleeding heavily, causing her severe anemia. She required a blood transfusion to bring her back to health. Doctors determined that a Total Abdominal Hysterectomy (TAH) would be the most appropriate treatment to address her condition and prevent potentially fatal complications permanently. Our medical partner, African Mission Healthcare, is requesting $1,363 to fund Beatrice's surgery. On August 19th, she will undergo gynecological surgery at our medical partner's care center, Partners in Hope Medical Center. Once recovered, Beatrice will be able to resume her daily activities free of pain. Beatrice shared, "Your support will be highly appreciated to save my life."

Boxter is a farmer from Malawi. He is a husband and father of three from Dzungu village in Dowa District. He grows maize, tomatoes, and other crops to support his family. Three years ago, Boxter started experiencing urinary retention. It is a condition he chose to keep to himself, not sharing it even with those closest to him. Despite the discomfort, he continued working and providing for his family, doing his best to manage the situation quietly. Recently, he came to Nkhoma Hospital and waited in the surgical clinic to be seen. He was diagnosed with benign prostatic hyperplasia. Doctors explained that he needs a surgery, known as TURP, to relieve his condition and restore normal function. While this gave him a clear solution, it also brought worry. Boxter began making phone calls to family members, hoping they could help him raise the money for surgery. In the end, they were only able to gather a little, which is not enough to cover the full cost. He was advised to return home and wait until more funds could be found. Still in need and uncertain of what to do next, Boxter was referred to the SAFE Program for consideration. This has given him a chance to be heard and a renewed sense of hope. He now looks forward to the possibility of receiving treatment and returning to his normal life without the burden he has carried in silence for so long. Physicians at Nkhoma Hospital determined that Boxter should undergo a prostatectomy. A prostatectomy is a surgery to remove part or all of the prostate. Our medical partner, African Mission Healthcare, is requesting $530 to fund this procedure. The treatment is scheduled to take place at Nkhoma Hospital on April 29th. Once completed, it will hopefully improve Boxter's quality of life. Boxter said, “I have stayed with this problem for a long time without telling anyone. I was afraid and did not know how I would manage it. Now that I have a chance to be treated, I am hoping for support. I want to be well again and live without this condition.”