David, a 30-year-old Bible college graduate from Goma in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, is the sixth of eleven siblings and harbors a deep passion for teaching children and youths. In 2021, he arrived in Kenya to pursue a Diploma in Bible Theology. Since 2019, David has endured chronic pain in his right groin area, which has also affected his right leg, making walking a challenge during painful episodes. In June this year, doctors diagnosed him with an inguinal hernia and undescended testicles. David's condition worsens in cold weather, especially in the mornings and evenings. To manage the pain, he uses a supportive belt and applies warm water massages, but the colder climate has made his symptoms more severe. Throughout his college years, David struggled to attend classes regularly due to pain, even losing a part-time job as a French teacher because he couldn't stand for long periods. Despite these challenges, David successfully graduated in July this year. Currently, David is unemployed and lacks the financial means necessary for his surgery. He relied on a scholarship to cover his diploma fees, as his parents in Congo were unable to support him. Fortunately, our medical partner, African Mission Healthcare, is helping David receive treatment. On August 12th, he will undergo corrective surgery at AIC Kijabe Hospital, so he can hopefully regain his health and pursue his passion for teaching. Now, David needs help to fund this $707 procedure. David says, “I love teaching children and the youth, and I hope to receive the treatment so I can pursue my dream.”

Abdul, who is five years old, is a brave young boy from Ethiopia. He is smart and good at communication and socializing. His mother is a housewife, who helps her husband on their farm. Unfortunately, their harvest is insufficient to meet the family's needs. In the past few years, the family has received donations from the government. However, due to the war, they no longer receive this assistance. They now survive by selling their farm animals for income, and sometimes, they have to take out loans to survive. Because of these financial difficulties, they cannot afford medical bills for their son. Since birth, Abdul has lived with a right inguinal hernia. This condition occurs in newborns and children, due to a weakness in the abdominal wall that is present at birth. Sometimes the hernia or bulge is only visible when the child is performing certain activities. As a result of discomfort from the hernia, a child may become irritable and have a reduced appetite. Other symptoms may include a burning or aching sensation at the site of the bulge, pain or discomfort, and a heavy or dragging feeling in the groin. In infants and children, inguinal hernias are always treated with surgery, to prevent future complications. While Abdul's condition has affected his whole family, our medical partner, African Mission Healthcare Foundation, is here to help. On September 18th, Abdul will undergo hernia repair surgery and his family is looking for help to raise $512 to fund his procedure. Abdul's mother said: “I hope with this surgery, he will heal, be comfortable, and be free of any complications.”

Chantha is a 42-year-old mother from Cambodia. She has two sons whoa re both in primary school. She and her husband sell drinks and snacks to travelers on a corner along a busy road in Prey Veng province. In her free time, she helps her children with their homework. Since birth, Chantha has had a rare, slow-growing, non-cancerous tumor called a chondroma that developed on the end portion of her right thigh bone. In rare cases, a chondroma can turn into cancer. Three weeks ago, she was in a road traffic collision, injuring her right leg. Her leg is swollen, she is unable to walk, and she is in pain. Fortunately, surgeons at our medical partner, Children's Surgical Centre, can help. On July 5th, Chantha will undergo a fracture repair procedure, which will allow the surgeons to remove the chondroma, stabilize the bone, and restore her mobility. This will decrease her pain and help her walk easily again. Chantha's family was able to contribute $100 towards her medical care but need help raising the remaining $383 to fund the procedure. Chantha said: "I hope to return home soon to care for my children and be free from pain."