Pov is a determined 17-year-old student from Cambodia. He lives in Kandal Province with his parents and is the youngest of five siblings, all of whom are married. His father sells drinking water, and his mother stays at home to care for the family and manage household tasks. He is currently studying in Grade 11 and enjoys physics. He dreams of becoming a doctor in the future. His favorite meals are soups, especially those with lots of vegetables, and he enjoys playing football with his friends in his free time. Eleven months ago, Pov sustained electrical burns to both hands in an accident. As the wounds healed, severe scar contractures developed, affecting the right first finger webspace and the left fifth finger. The scar contractures have tightened the skin and limited movement in both hands. This makes it difficult for him to grasp objects, hold items properly, and write his school lessons. He also feels self-conscious about the appearance of his scars and often hides them by wearing long sleeves. Pov sought treatment with our medical partner, Children's Surgical Centre (CSC). On May 21st, surgeons at CSC will perform a burn contracture release surgery to improve hand movement and restore better function. This treatment will help him write more easily, hold objects comfortably, and regain confidence in using his hands for daily activities and school. His family can contribute $25, but needs help raising $627 more to fund his procedure and care. Pov said, “I hope this surgery will help my hands move normally again so I can write my lessons easily, hold things without difficulty, and feel confident without needing to hide my scars anymore.”

Fritz is a 30-year-old man from the Philippines. He is the only member of his family with a stable job, and his income covers their house rent and daily expenses. Once an avid basketball player, Fritz has had to give up the sport because of his condition and now spends his free time watching videos on his phone instead. Access to surgery would help him return to work without pain, support his family, and regain the active life he once enjoyed. For six years, Fritz has dealt with an inguinal hernia. His hernia has become increasingly painful, making it difficult to perform the physical demands of his work, raising fears that he could lose his livelihood if his condition remains untreated. Fortunately, our medical partner can help Frtiz receive the care he needs. On July 24th, Fritz will undergo hernia repair surgery at our medical partner's care center, Our Lady of Peace Hospital. The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation is supporting a portion of the cost of Fritz's treatment. Our medical partner is raising the remaining $1,038 to cover the cost of his surgery and care. Once completed, this procedure will allow him to live more comfortably and confidently. Fritz said, "I hope this surgery will allow me to work without pain again and continue providing for my family. I also look forward to playing basketball again once I have fully recovered."

Chantha is a 43-year-old former construction worker from Cambodia. He is married and lives in Kampong Chhnang Province with his wife, who works in a garment factory. They have three children: the eldest works as a car repairer, the second is a construction worker, and the youngest is in Grade 6. He is currently unemployed and spends his time raising chickens and growing vegetables at home. In May 2022, Chantha sustained a fracture on his right thighbone when he was trapped under a collapsed house. He initially underwent fracture repair surgery with plate and screws, followed by antegrade intramedullary nailing due to persistent symptoms. Presently, he experiences ongoing discomfort related to the surgical hardware. The condition causes persistent pain and discomfort, especially when walking or standing. He currently uses crutches for mobility, and has difficulty performing normal daily activities. Fortunately, surgeons at our medical partner, Children's Surgical Centre, can help. On May 19th, Chantha will undergo a fracture repair procedure (hardware removal with K-nail and bone grafting) which is expected to reduce his pain, improve mobility, and help him walk more comfortably without metal-related discomfort. Chantha is able to contribute towards the cost of his treatment, but needs help raising $550 more to fund the procedure. He says, “I hope this surgery will relieve my pain, allow me to walk normally again, and help me live without discomfort from the metal in my leg.”