Gutema is a 23-year-old man from Ethiopia, married with one daughter. He works as a day laborer, a physically demanding job that requires him to use his full strength and mobility every day, typically at construction sites. Recently, Gutema was diagnosed with a severe infection in his thighbone that causes painful swelling. This condition has left him unable to perform the physical tasks his work demands. Because his income depends entirely on his ability to work each day, his family is now in a challenging situation. Without his mobility, his livelihood and his family’s stability is now at serious risk. The bone infection also causes him intense pain. Following Gutema's review at our medical partner's care center Saglan Wajee General Hospital, doctors have recommended that he undergoes a sequestrectomy, a surgical procedure involving the removal of fragments of infected dead bone or tissue. If not treated, it can lead to recurrent infections that may result in life-threatening complications. Fortunately, on June 4th, Gutema will undergo repair surgery at our medical partner's care center. Our medical partner, Saglan Wajee General Hospital, is requesting $900 to fund Gutema's surgery. Once completed, this procedure will alleviate his symptoms and prevent serious long-term complications. "My family cannot afford to lose my ability to work, as I am responsible for everything in our home. The pain and the stress of not being able to provide for them is overwhelming. This surgery is the key to saving my livelihood," said Gutema.

Jovin is a one-month-old baby boy from Tanzania. His parents were overjoyed to welcome him into their lives, committed to ensuring he would have a healthy and fulfilling future. Jovin's mother is a stay-at-home mother, and his father is a Bajaji driver trying his best to provide for his family. Jovin was born with clubfoot on both feet. Clubfoot is a condition in which the foot is twisted out of shape. The tissues connecting the muscle to the bones are shorter than usual and this causes difficulty walking and even wearing shoes. Fortunately, Jovin's family traveled to visit our medical partner's care center, Kafika House, where doctors will begin clubfoot treatment on April 21st. Our medical partner, African Mission Healthcare, is requesting $341 to fund Jovin's clubfoot repair. After treatment, he will have a strong chance to develop as other children, and avoid long-term disability. His parents remain hopeful and dedicated to following through with treatment, knowing it will allow their son to grow up active and independent. Jovin's mother says, "We wish for him to take his first steps without difficulty, and grow strong."

Reaksa is a 25-year-old soldier from Cambodia. He lives in a small village in Takeo province with his elderly parents, who work as vegetable sellers at a local market. His wife works at a book factory. In his free time, he helps his wife with household work and grows vegetables around his home to support their daily living. Four months ago, Reaksa was involved in a traffic accident, causing paralysis of his right arm. He has been diagnosed with a brachial plexus injury on his right side. The brachial plexus is a nerve network that transmits signals from the spine to the shoulder, arm, and hand. Injuries to this nerve network can result in loss of function and sensation. He is unable to lift his right hand and sometimes feels pain in his arm and elbow. He has difficulty bending his elbow and using his hand for daily activities and work, which affects his ability to perform his military duties and support his family. Reaksa traveled to our medical partner's care center, Kien Khleang National Rehabilitation Centre, to undergo a brachial plexus repair surgery on February 24th. This is the only center in the whole country where this treatment is available. After recovery, he will gain movement and strength in his right arm, reduce pain, and improve elbow and hand function. This will allow him to perform daily activities and return to work more comfortably. Reaksa's family can contribute $100, but our medical partner, Children's Surgical Centre, needs help raising $637 to fund Reaksa's procedure and care. Reaksa said, “I hope this treatment will help my hand recover so I can work and support my family again.”