Abebech is a 39-year-old nun from Ethiopia. She has devoted her life to serving others and works tirelessly for her church community by preparing meals, washing clothes, and handling every duty given to her. Abebech is currently suffering from a painful internal growth (myoma) that requires urgent medical care. Because she lives as a nun, she does not have family to lean on during this painful health trial and relies on the hospital and her community of nuns to get the care she needs to heal and continue her spiritual work. For four years, Abebech has been experiencing worrisome symptoms that make it difficult to live her daily life. She has been diagnosed with fibroids, which are benign growths in the uterus. Abebech needs to undergo a myomectomy, a procedure in which surgeons will remove the fibroids. Even though she believes that both joy and hardship are natural parts of life's journey, this illness has been truly overwhelming. Dealing with months of heavy bleeding, severe pain, and constant hospital visits—all without an income—leaves her feeling sad and frustrated at times. Fortunately, Abebech is scheduled to undergo a myomectomy on July 30th at our medical partner's care center. Our medical partner, Saglan Wajee General Hospital, is requesting $1,050 to fund her surgery. Abebech shared that she hopes this surgery will allow her to be free from pain so she can return to the peaceful, quiet routine of her daily life.

Roland is a 36-year-old father from the Philippines. He has been living with a fistula for about 15 years. Initially, his symptoms were sporadic and self-resolving. However, flare-ups have become frequent, occurring every two months for the past two years. These episodes cause pain, fatigue, and difficulty sitting, forcing Roland to adjust his daily routine. After Roland traveled to our medical partner's care center, World Surgical Foundation Philippines, surgery was recommended to relieve his symptoms. While this has brought Roland hope, the estimated cost remains beyond his financial capacity, leaving him reliant on antibiotics for temporary relief. Despite his condition, Roland continues to support his family by helping run their small clothing business and taking on electrical work on the side. His condition limits his ability to fully participate in work, leisure activities, and caring for his children. His family strongly believes surgery would restore his quality of life, reduce recurring medical expenses, and ease the financial strain. Fortunately, Roland is scheduled to receive surgery on March 20th at the World Surgical Foundation Philippines. Our medical partner, Our Lady of Peace Hospital, is requesting $1,198 to fund this treatment. Access to surgical treatment would allow Roland to regain comfort, resume normal activities, and provide more stability for his household. Roland shared, "I’m looking forward to playing basketball again without pain and being able to sit comfortably while spending time with my children."

Teresu is a 14-year-old boy from Tanzania. Growing up in a farming community, Teresu spends much of his time helping with crop cultivation, an important source of livelihood for his family. He has never attended school but actively contributes to family work in the fields. Teresu has been diagnosed with bilateral genu valgus, is a condition where the knees angle inward and touch while the ankles remain apart. His right leg is however more severely affected than the left. Several factors could cause this condition, such as growth disorders, vitamin deficiencies, or excessive fluoride found in contaminated drinking water. As a result, the knees can be angled inwards or outwards, making it difficult to walk and may cause long-term joint damage. The condition has caused Teresu discomfort during long hours of standing and walking, limiting his ability to work and participate in daily activities. Despite the challenges, he remains hardworking and hopeful. Our medical partner, African Mission Healthcare, is requesting $777 to fund treatment for Teresu. The procedure is scheduled to take place on March 6th at our medical partner's care center, Kafika House. Treatment will hopefully restore Teresu's mobility, allowing him to participate in a variety of activities, and greatly decrease his risk of future complications. Teresu says, “I want to walk and work without pain, so I can help my family better.”