Ephraim is a 51-year-old man from Malawi. He is a father of five, and lives with his wife, three of his children, and three grandchildren. He depends on farming to provide for his family, growing maize and groundnuts. Although farming does not bring him much income, it usually provides enough food for the family and gives Ephraim a way to support those who depend on him. About a year ago, Ephraim started experiencing uncomfortable symptoms, prompting him to depend on medication and a catheter. Determined to find a lasting solution, he sought care from several hospitals but did not get the relief he needed. His family encouraged him to seek further treatment at our medical partner's care center, Nkhoma Mission Hospital. Upon examination, he was diagnosed with benign prostatic hyperplasia. Physicians at Nkhoma Hospital have determined that Ephraim should undergo a prostatectomy, 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 September 9th and, once completed, it will hopefully improve Ephraim's quality of life. Ephraim said, "My hope is that this health problem will finally be resolved, so that I can return to living healthier again, and being there for my family."

Ricarson is a 45-year-old man from Haiti. He lives by himself in a neighborhood of Port-au-Prince; he has seven siblings. He works primarily as an electrician, but also as a freelance journalist. Ricarson has a cardiac condition called rheumatic mitral regurgitation. One of the four valves of his heart does not open and close properly as a result of an infection he suffered earlier in his life. This has led to heart failure, leaving him weak and short of breath. Ricarson needs to fly to the Dominican Republic to receive treatment. On August 12th, he will undergo heart surgery, during which surgeons will remove his damaged valve and implant an artificial replacement. Another organization, Haitian Hearts Foundation, is contributing to the cost of the surgery. But Ricarson's family also needs help to fund the costs of surgery prep. Our medical partner, International Cardiac Alliance, is requesting $1,500 to cover laboratory tests, medications, and check-up and follow-up appointments. It also supports securing travel documents for the family and travel costs for the social workers from our medical partner, who will accompany Ricarson's family overseas. Richardson says, "I am looking forward to having the strength and energy I need to live my life, and would like to say thank you to everyone!"

Edward is a 63-year-old man from Malawi. He is married with five children, and earns a living through roasting and selling peanuts within his community. Although all five of his children are married, they are supporting their own families, and are unable to provide significant financial assistance. At his age, he earns very little income from his business, which is often insufficient to meet his daily needs. Three years ago, Edward was diagnosed with a right inguinal hernia, a condition that occurs when abdominal tissue protrudes through a weak spot in the lower abdominal muscles, causing a bulge in the groin area. He first noticed a small swelling, which he ignored because it was painless and he believed it would resolve on its own. Over time, the swelling began to appear intermittently, and later started causing abdominal pain and discomfort. Concerned about his worsening condition, his brother advised him to seek medical attention at Partners in Hope Medical Center (PIH). At the hospital, his diagnosis was confirmed, and a surgical repair recommended. Our medical partner, African Mission Healthcare, is helping Edward receive treatment. On September 16th, he will undergo hernia repair surgery at PIH to relieve his symptoms, allowing him to live a healthier life. Now, Edward needs help to fund this $575 procedure. He says: "Your support will give me a whole new life, and help me to enjoy my life in good health."