Charles is an 8-year-old boy from Isanjandugu, Mpanda District, Tanzania. His parents are farmers who rely on seasonal rain to cultivate maize and beans to support Charles and his four siblings. Charles was born with clubfoot, where his foot is twisted and out of shape. As his parents were not aware that this condition could be corrected, they never sought treatment. Having clubfoot makes it difficult for Charles to walk, run, play, and wear shoes. Fortunately, our medical partner, African Mission Healthcare, can help. Charles will begin clubfoot treatment on September 13th. Doctors will start him on manipulation and casting which will be followed by clubfoot correction surgery. Charles needs your help to raise $1,119 to fund this procedure. After recovery, Charles will improve his mobility, build strength, and be able to play with his siblings and friends. Charles' father says: “I hope my son will be okay after he has his treatment, and he can grow up to be healthy and strong.”

Shahidu is a small-scale farmer from Malawi. He is married with three children. He has never attended school and cannot read or write, so he is unaware of his children's ages or classes. Shahidu primarily grows crops for his family's consumption. Three years ago, Shahidu was diagnosed with a right inguinal hernia. He has been experiencing abdominal pain and swelling, a feeling of weakness or pressure in the abdomen, and discomfort when bending over, coughing, or lifting heavy objects. These symptoms worsened over time, causing him significant pain and difficulty performing daily activities. If left untreated, inguinal hernias can lead to complications, such as strangulation, which cuts off the blood flow to the protruding intestine and can be life-threatening. Fortunately, on October 2nd, Shahidu will undergo hernia repair surgery at our medical partner's care center, Partners in Hope Medical Center. Our medical partner, African Mission Healthcare, is requesting $575 to fund Shahidu's surgery. Once completed, this procedure will hopefully allow him to live more comfortably and confidently. Shahidu said, "I just want to be healthy again to focus on farming and provide for my family. This pain has made life hard, but with the surgery, I believe things will get better. I’m grateful for the help, and I look forward to getting back to work and making sure my children have a better future."

Meet Jayden, a six-month-old baby boy from Haiti. He is the only child of a single mother. Jayden was diagnosed with hydrocephalus, a condition in which excess cerebrospinal fluid accumulates in the brain, and increases intracranial pressure. He was able to undergo one surgery but now needs a follow-up procedure to ensure the fluids are properly draining and not putting pressure on his developing brain. The circumference of Jayden's head has been increasing in size, and if he doesn't receive proper treatment, he will experience severe physical and developmental delays. Our medical partner, Project Medishare, is requesting $897 to cover the cost of surgery for Jayden. The procedure, scheduled for August 16th at Hospital Bernard Mevs, will drain the excess fluid from Jayden's brain, and reduce intracranial pressure. After his surgery, Jayden's quality of life should improve greatly. With proper support and care, he may grow up strong and healthy. Jayden's mother shared, "I hope for a successful surgery for my son."