Kena is eight-year-old energetic boy from Ethiopia. Kena is in the second grade and lives with his parents and his sister, but lately, his presence at school has been missed due to recurring bouts of tonsillitis. This chronic condition has temporarily sidelined him, pausing both his education and playtime. Two years ago, Kena began experiencing snoring, fever and recurring sore throats. This creates a difficult cycle of sick days that keeps him out of class and fun, active games he should be playing with his sister. He also experiences high fevers that keep coming back and a sharp, burning pain whenever he tries to swallow. This makes eating and drinking a daily struggle, often leaving him feeling completely exhausted and without energy. Kena was recently diagnosed with enlarged tonsils, which, if not treated, will cause his symptoms to persist and possibly intensify over time. Thankfully, our medical partner, Saglan Wajee General Hospital can help. They are requesting $700 to fund a tonsillectomy for Kena, which is scheduled to take place on March 4th. Surgeons will remove his tonsils, hopefully relieving Kena of his symptoms and helping him live more comfortably. Kena says "I am so excited for the opportunity to get back to school and play with my friends. I really miss eating the snacks I love! Because of my tonsils, swallowing feels like a sharp fire, which makes eating feel like hard work. I know my mom and dad are worried, and I think the best part for them will be seeing me smile and run around with all my energy again."

Bernardo is 65-year-old grandfather from the Philippines. He and his wife rely on the modest income from their small sari-sari store to support their household. He enjoys watching videos on his cellphone and cherishes spending time with his grandson, who brings him so much joy. Before his health issues worsened, Bernardo was working hard on becoming more physically active so that he can be present for his grandson. About eighteen months ago, Bernardo began to experience the symptoms of an inguinal hernia. These symptoms have escalated over time, causing him excruciating abdominal pain that has rendering him immobile. This pain interferes with his daily activities, his time with his grandson, and his goal to become healthier. Fortunately, on August 6th, Bernardo will undergo hernia repair surgery at our medical partner's care center, Our Lady of Peace Hospital. A portion of the cost of Bernardo's treatment is being supported by the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation. Our medical partner is raising the remaining $1,038 to cover the cost of his surgery and care. Once completed, this procedure will hopefully allow him to live more comfortably and confidently. He will be able to continue caring for his family and enjoy more time with his grandchild. Bernardo shared, “I am grateful for the opportunity to receive free surgery. I look forward to recovering so I can stay active, care for my grandchild, and spend more quality time with my family.”

Hervens is a 17-year-old high-school student from Haiti. He lives in a neighborhood of Port-au-Prince with his parents, four brothers, and two sisters. His parents are both small-scale vendors. Hervens is in his second year of high school and likes art and literature. Hervens has a cardiac condition called atrial septal defect. A hole exists between the two upper chambers of his heart; blood leaks through this hole, leaving him weak and short of breath. Hervens needs fly to the Dominican Republic to receive treatment. On June 23rd, he will undergo heart surgery, during which doctors will sew a patch over the hole so that blood can no longer leak through it. Another organization is contributing to pay for surgery. Hervens'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, medicines, 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 Hervens's family overseas. Hervens says: "I am looking forward to having more energy, and to being stronger after my surgery!"