Makbel is a 16-month-old baby boy from Ethiopia. He enjoys playing with cars and spending time with his older brother and sister. His mother works in the human resources department of a government organization, while his father is an electrician. Makbel was born with hypospadias, a condition that causes urinary dysfunction. Without treatment, he will continue to experience uncomfortable symptoms and will be at risk of future complications. Makbel was taken to a medical centre and referred to a higher-level hospital for further evaluation. The attending doctor recommended an ultrasound and surgical correction. However, the family was informed that there was a waiting list for surgery. Due to financial constraints, they could not afford private treatment. Eventually, Makbel was referred to our medical partner's care center, BethanyKids Myungsung Christian Medical Centre (BKMCM), for further management. Upon arrival, his mother expressed relief and gratitude for the support and access to care. Makbel was warmly received at BKMCM, where the medical team conducted a thorough evaluation. Fortunately, Makbel is scheduled to undergo corrective surgery on October 30th. Our medical partner, African Mission Healthcare, is requesting $1,293 to cover the cost of his procedure and care. Makbel’s mother said, "Thank you to BethanyKids for giving my child this chance and opportunity for surgery. We are truly grateful for your support and kindness. BethanyKids has a great vision of helping children in need. May God bless all of you and every member of the staff. Thank you so much."

Saveoeun is a retired rice farmer from Prey Veng province. She is a 66-year-old woman and has four sons, one daughter, and 13 grandchildren. She lives with her husband and her oldest daughter, who is a farmer. During her free time, she likes to listen to monks pray on the radio. About one year ago, Saveoeun developed a cataract in her left eye, causing her itchiness, tearing, and blurry vision. A cataract is a clouding of the lens of the eye, so it is like looking through a frosty or fogged-up window. She has difficulty seeing things clearly, including colors and faces, and is worried about falling when walking, so she is not able to go places on her own. When Saveoeun learned about our medical partner, Children's Surgical Centre, she traveled for three hours seeking treatment. On May 11th, doctors will perform a phacoemulsification cataract surgery and an intraocular lens implant in her left eye. After recovery, she will be able to see clearly. She can contribute $50, but needs help raising $213 more to fund her procedure and care. Saveoeun said, "I hope after surgery, my eye can see better so I can easily go out and recognize people. I feel happy, and I want to grow vegetables around my home for selling."

Valery is a 37-year-old father from Haiti. He lives with his partner and their three-year-old daughter in a neighborhood of Port-au-Prince. Valery works as a documentation officer at the international airport. In his free time, he enjoys playing video games and spending time with his friends. Valery has a cardiac condition called rheumatic mitral regurgitation. One of the four valves of his heart does not open and close properly due to an infection he suffered earlier in his life. This has led to heart failure, leaving him weak and short of breath. Valery needs to fly to the Dominican Republic to receive treatment. On August 5th, he will undergo heart surgery, during which doctors will remove Valery's damaged valve and implant an artificial replacement. Another organization, Haitian Hearts Foundation, is contributing $12,000 to pay for surgery. Valery's family also needs help to fund the costs of surgery prep. Our medical partner, International Cardiac Alliance, is requesting $1,500 to cover labs, medications, and check-up and follow-up appointments. This cost also covers securing travel documents for the family and travel costs for the social workers from our medical partner who will accompany Valery's family overseas. Valery said, "I am so grateful to receive this surgery so that I can focus on my future with my family."