Fortunate is a 23-year-old subsistence farmer from Uganda. Her father passed when she was young, and her mother was unable to raise funds for her school fees. She is the second oldest in her family of nine kids. Fortunate and her husband both practice small-scale farming. However, six months ago, a fire incident burned down their home and left them with little of what they had. They no longer have a reliable income, making it challenging to afford Fortunate's recommended medical procedure. Currently, they are renting a single-room home. Fortunate shared that, during her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family. Fortunate is currently expecting her fourth child, and her doctors recommended that she deliver via a cesarean section. This way, doctors can ensure the safety of both mother and child. Our medical partner, African Mission Healthcare (AMH), is helping Fortunate undergo a C-Section on February 28th. This procedure will cost $252. Fortunate shared: “I hope to deliver a live and healthy baby and finally be able to resume cultivation in peoples’ gardens for a living since we lost everything we had."

Neang is a 67-year-old widow. She lives in Kandal province with her nephew after her husband passed away 7 years ago from hypertension. Some of her favorite activities include joining ceremonies at her local pagoda and cooking for her nephew's children. About one year ago, Neang developed a cataract in her right eye, causing her blurry vision, irritation, tearing. She has difficulty seeing things clearly, including colors and faces, and is worried about falling when walking, so is not able to go places on her own. When Neang learned about our medical partner, Children's Surgical Centre, she traveled for three hours seeking treatment. On January 4th, doctors will perform a small incision cataract surgery and place an intraocular lens implant in her right eye. After recovery, she will be able to see clearly. Now, she needs help to fund this $253 procedure. Neang said: "I hope my vision improves and I can get around easily by myself. I want to be able to help care for my nephew's children and walk to the pagoda by myself."

Akram is a cute, curious 3-year-old from Tanzania. His mother is the family’s sole provider and works as a vendor at a local market, selling vegetables and fruits. Currently, Akram and his mother live in town to help save on living costs as he receives medical treatment, while his three siblings live with their grandmother in the village. Akram was diagnosed with bilateral genus varus, a condition in which his legs bow outwards so that his knees do not touch. This condition is typically caused by an excessive accumulation of fluoride in the bones, which often stems from contaminated drinking water. Our medical partner, African Mission Healthcare (AMH), is helping Akram receive treatment. On January 6th, he will undergo surgery that will restore his mobility, allow him to participate in various activities, and significantly decrease his risk of future complications. AMH is requesting $880 to fund this procedure. Akram’s mother shared: “As a single mother struggling to provide for my children, Akram’s condition has been weighing on me.”