Linah, a baby girl from Arusha, was born with clubfoot, a condition characterized by the foot being twisted out of shape. To provide her with an opportunity for a healthy and active life, medical intervention is necessary. Unfortunately, her parents, who are self-employed, are unable to shoulder the financial weight of her treatment. Linah's mother earns a living by selling vegetables at the local market, while her father supports the family through small-scale farming. Despite their modest income, they are determined to provide the best possible future for their children. Linah has an older brother who is just one year old, and her parents are acutely aware of the potential lifelong consequences of untreated clubfoot. They believe that pursuing early treatment will allow Linah to grow up without enduring any disabilities or the social impact. Her father's personal experience influenced the decision to bring Linah to our medical partner's care center: Plaster House. He was also once treated at the facility, and the positive outcome of his treatment has instilled confidence in their family regarding Plaster House's expertise and commitment to providing quality care. Linah's mother wishes to see her daughter receive the same level of treatment and care that her spouse received in the past. However, due to the family's limited financial resources, they cannot afford the costs associated with Linah's treatment. Thankfully, Linah had the opportunity to visit Arusha Lutheran Medical Centre, our medical partner's care center. On June 13th, skilled surgeons will perform a clubfoot repair surgery for her. Our medical partner is seeking $935 to cover the costs of Linah's treatment. Following the intervention, she will be able to lead a rewarding life without the burdens imposed by clubfoot. Linah’s mother says, "I wish for my daughter to get good care and the best treatment that will give her a chance to live a life free from disability."

Veung is a 64-year-old doting grandmother. She is a retired rice farmer from Kandal province, and her husband is a retired security guard. They have one son, two daughters, and six grandchildren, and they live with their youngest daughter, who is a garment worker and supports their living. Veung enjoys going to the local pagoda on holy days with her husband and helps her children by caring for the grandchildren while her children are working. Several years ago, Veung developed a cataract in her left eye, causing her itchiness, tearing, and blurry vision. Farming has been a way of life for her since she was young, and she has spent most of her life outdoors. Now, she has difficulty seeing things clearly, including colors and faces, and is worried about falling when walking, so she cannot go places on her own. When Veung learned about our medical partner, Children's Surgical Centre (CSC), she traveled for three hours seeking treatment. On May 5th, doctors will perform cataract surgery and an intraocular lens implant in her left eye. After recovery, she will be able to see clearly. Now, she needs help to fund this $253 procedure. Veung said: "After surgery, I hope I can see better, go outside with my husband, and not be afraid I will fall. I can help my daughter to take care of my grandchildren."

Phaneat is a 23-year-old student who lives in Phnom Penh City with her parents. She has 3 siblings - 2 older brothers who are married and a younger sister. Her parents have a small grocery store. In school, Phaneat is studying to be an accountant. When she has free time, she likes to read books and do research. Since Phaneat was 10 years old, she has had frequent sore throats. It is often difficult for her to swallow and breathe. She has tried many medications from their local pharmacy, but her illness always returns. For the past 3 months, Phaneat has had a chronic sore throat, difficulty swallowing and has lost her appetite. She was recently diagnosed with enlarged tonsils and adenoids, which, if not treated, will cause her symptoms to persist and possibly intensify over time. Fortunately, our medical partner Children's Surgical Centre (CSC) is able to help. Phaneat is scheduled for a tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy on September 4th. Surgeons will remove her tonsils and adenoids, hopefully relieving Phaneat of her symptoms and helping her live much more comfortably. She is able to contribute $50 towards the cost of surgery and needs help raising $265 to fund the procedure. She said, "I hope my sore throat goes away, it will be easy to breathe and easy to eat."