Lucio is a 48-year-old man from the Philippines. He resides with his brother, the sole remaining member of his family, and is employed in his brother’s micro-enterprise where they produce and sell rice cakes. For this, he earns $87 a month as his personal allowance.
One year ago, Lucio started experiencing pain in a sensitive area. He initially thought it was a urinary tract infection, but when the pain persisted, he was taken to our medical partner’s care center, Our Lady of Peace Hospital. Upon review, he was diagnosed with inguinal hernia, a condition in which soft tissue bulges through a weak point in the abdominal muscles. The doctors advised that he undergo hernia repair surgery.
Fortunately, our medical partner, World Surgical Foundation Philippines, is helping Lucio receive treatment. On May 9th, surgeons at Our Lady of Peace Hospital will perform hernia repair surgery to relieve his symptoms and allow him to live more comfortably and confidently. A portion of the cost of Lucio’s treatment is being supported by the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, but Lucio still needs help raising $1,103 to fund the procedure.
Lucio says: “My income only covers my personal expenses. I even eat at my brother’s table, so I am very grateful for this opportunity. Thank you for helping me.”