Adrianel is a six-year-old boy from the Philippines, currently in the first grade. He and his three older siblings were raised by their grandparents, as their mother suffers from mental illness and their father left to be with another woman.
When Adrianel was six months old, his grandmother noticed that his scrotum was enlarged and increasing in size. His grandparents are very worried about him, but they could not afford to bring him to a doctor. He is often in pain, and when the pain flares up he can barely eat or sleep.
Adrianel was referred to a community clinic, sponsored by our medical partner, International Care Ministries. Doctors diagnosed him with an inguinal hernia, and he was advised to undergo surgery as soon as possible to avoid further complications. Unfortunately, Adrianel’s grandfather is the family’s sole earner and cannot afford to pay for the $962 hernia repair surgery.
Aside from his condition, Adrianel is attentive, sociable, and very eager to learn in school. He helps his grandparents in small ways, such as sweeping the leaves around the house and folding clothes. Adrianel is very close to his grandparents, and says that when he grows up, he will build a big and beautiful house for them. He also wishes to get his mother treatment so she can rejoin their family.
Adrianel’s grandparents are concerned about his condition and his future. They want him to finish his studies and enjoy his childhood like other children his age. “Thank you for helping us and our grandson,” they say.
