Rafael is a 22-month-old boy from Ethiopia. His mother works in the finance department of a government institution, while his father works in the utilities sector. He is joyful and active child, who loves playing with toys and cars. Rafael has a condition called cryptorchidism, meaning that one of his testicles has not descended. This condition is often not obvious to parents and may not be diagnosed for some time. Fortunately for Rafael, an extended family member was familiar with a related condition and encouraged Rafael’s mother to have him checked. Rafael then had an ultrasound evaluation in which his condition was confirmed, and surgery was recommended. When Rafael’s mother learned about the condition, she became worried and anxious for his future. Without treatment, Rafael has an increased risk of developing hernias, testicular cancer, and future fertility problems. Fortunately, the doctors referred Rafael for surgery at our medical partner’s care center, BethanyKids Myungsung Christian Medical Centre (BKMCM). After about a month, the family was warmly welcomed at BKMCM. Our medical partner, African Mission Healthcare (AMH), has scheduled Rafael’s surgery for August 17th. AMH is requesting $754 to cover the total cost of his procedure and care. Rafael’s mother shared, “Thank you so much to everyone at BethanyKids. I hope Rafael will be healthy and that he will have a successful and peaceful surgery.”

Bunny is a 33-year-old man who lives in Kandal Province in Cambodia. He works as a construction worker, while his wife works in a garment factory. The couple also has a small household garden, where they grow vegetables. Together, Bunny and his wife have three children. About a month ago, Bunny was involved in a motor vehicle accident, and sustained an injury on his left foot. He initially received treatment at a private clinic, where the wound was cleaned and dressed. He then continued wound care at home. Despite this, the wound failed to heal, and has remained open as a non-healing injury. The condition has significantly affected his daily life. He has difficulty walking, performing physical work, and returning to his job, which has impacted his family’s financial stability. Bunny was referred to our medical partner, Children’s Surgical Centre, for specialized care. He is scheduled to undergo free flap surgery on his left foot on June 17th, at Kien Khleang National Rehabilitation Centre. The surgery will close the wound, promote healing, and restore foot function. This will help restore Bunny's mobility, allowing him to walk more comfortably, and enabling him to return to work and normal daily activities. Bunny and his family are able to contribute towards the cost of his treatment, but need help raising $759 more to fund the surgery. Bunny says: “After surgery, I hope that my wound will heal completely, so I can walk comfortably again, return to work, and take care of my daily responsibilities without difficulty.”

Ezekiel is a 76-year-old man from Malawi. He is a widower and father of six living in Nathenje, Lilongwe. He works as a day laborer and a small-scale farmer. Ezekiel lives alone in a small house which was initially temporary, but now is his permanent home. For one year, Ezekiel has noticed a left inguinal hernia. The condition has slowly taken away his strength and ability to work comfortably. He now experiences pain that stretches down into his right leg, making it difficult for him to walk long distances or perform physical labor. The work that once sustained him has become harder and harder to do. Hoping for help, he came to Nkhoma Hospital, where doctors examined him and advised that surgery is needed to correct the condition and relieve his pain. Hearing that treatment was possible brought him hope, but the cost of surgery is more than he can afford. For Ezekiel, this surgery means more than treatment. It is a chance to regain his strength, continue working, and live without the constant pain that now shapes his days. Your support will empower him to keep fighting despite his circumstances. Fortunately, on May 18th, he will undergo hernia repair with mesh surgery at Nkhoma Hospital, our medical partner's care center. Our medical partner, African Mission Healthcare, is requesting $500 to fund Ezekiel's hernia repair surgery. The procedure is scheduled to take place on May 18th and once completed, will hopefully allow him to live more comfortably. Ezekiel said, “I am growing old, but I still want to work and care for myself while I can. This illness has made life very difficult for me. I do not have anyone to help me, but I am hoping that I can receive support and get this surgery so I can live with less pain.”