Umaru is a small-scale farmer from Uganda. He farms on his small piece of land, mainly growing food crops for home consumption and selling the surplus to generate income for his family. Umaru came in presenting with an umbilical swelling, which he has had for close to 6 months. The pain and swelling progressed over time, affecting his movement and ability to perform daily activities. Umaru was diagnosed with an umbilical hernia and the doctors recommended for him to have surgery to remove the mass. Umaru traveled to our medical partner's care center to receive treatment. On March 5th, surgeons will remove the mass. Now, Umaru needs help to raise $188 to fund this procedure. Umaru says, "With support, I hope to undergo my surgery, expect to get better, and continue farming in good health to sustain my family."

Arkam is seven-year-old primary school student from Tanzania. He lives with his grandparents while his parents work in another region of the country. Both his grandparents along with his parents, work together to provide for his needs. However, the grandparents also care for three more grandchildren. Arkam was born with a congenital condition that limits the full use of his fingers on both hands. Despite making efforts to seek treatment, the family encountered difficulties due to the high cost of medical expenses. In 2023, they reached out to our medical partner's care center Kafika House and were invited for a review. Earlier this month, Arkam was brought to Kafika House by his grandfather for consultation. Specialist surgeons at the center have proposed a contracture release and skin graft to help him gain use of his fingers. Fortunately, our medical partner, African Mission Healthcare, is helping Arkam receive treatment at their care center Kafika House. On March 6th, surgeons will perform a contracture release surgery to enhance the functionality of his hand. Now, his family needs help to fund this $874 procedure. Arkam’s grandfather says: “I hope my grandson will be able to use his hand because it will make it easier for him while in school.”

Briven is a 2-year-old boy from Uganda. His parents are farmers who grow food for the family. He has two older brothers who are in school. Briven's father hopes his son will be an engineer in the future. Briven was born with hydrocele or a swelling in a sensitive area of the body. The doctors recommended surgery for him once he reached eight months. However, his parents couldn’t raise the funds needed. Recently, Briven has been in pain, unable to walk or play. Fortunately, on March 12, he will undergo hydrocele repair surgery. Our medical partner, African Mission Healthcare Foundation, is requesting $139 to fund Briven's surgery. Once completed, this procedure will hopefully allow him to live more comfortably and confidently. Briven's parents shared, “The only hope we have for a complete recovery of our child is by surgery, yet we have no money. We really need support.”