Denis is a young boy from Malawi. He is in second grade at a local primary school in Ntcheu District. He lives with his family alongside his five siblings. His mother works as a patient attendant, and his father runs a small business to support the household. For most of his life, Denis has had an inguinal hernia. Over the years, it has caused him discomfort, especially when walking long distances, sitting for long periods, or riding a bicycle. Despite this, his condition went untreated. Recently, his pain became much worse. After returning from the market on his father’s bicycle, Denis experienced severe discomfort that left him in agony. This moment pushed his parents to seek medical attention. They brought him to Nkhoma Hospital, where doctors assessed him and confirmed the condition. He was advised that surgery is needed to correct the problem and prevent further complications. He was referred to the SAFE program for financial assistance because they expressed that their financial situation did not allow them to afford surgery for Denis. Denis now waits for the chance to receive treatment so he can move freely, return to school comfortably, and enjoy life without pain. Fortunately, on April 29th, he will undergo hernia repair surgery at Nkhoma Hospital, our medical partner's care center. Our medical partner, African Mission Healthcare, is requesting $421 to fund Denis's hernia repair surgery. Once completed, it will hopefully allow Denis to live more comfortably. Denis' mother said, “I want my child to be free from this pain and live like other children. Seeing him suffer made us realize we needed help. We are hoping he can receive this treatment and be well again.”

Nahreen is a three-year-old girl from Tanzania. She lives with her parents and her younger brother in a loving household that carefully supports her development. Nahreen was diagnosed with bilateral genu varus. Her parents first noticed the exaggerated outward curvature of her legs soon after she began walking. Several factors could cause this condition, such as growth disorders, vitamin deficiencies, or excessive fluoride found in contaminated drinking water. As a result, the knees can be angled inwards or outwards, making it difficult to walk and may cause long-term joint damage. Without treatment, the condition could worsen as she grows, affecting her ability to walk, play, and attend school comfortably. Her parents look forward to seeing their daughter walk confidently, play with peers, and participate fully in childhood activities without limitation. Our medical partner, African Mission Healthcare, is requesting $810 to fund treatment for Nahreen. The procedure is scheduled to take place on March 6th at our medical partner's care center, Kafika House. Treatment will hopefully restore Nahreen's mobility, allow her to participate in a variety of activities, and greatly decrease her risk of future complications. Nahreen's mother says, “Our wish is to see her walk freely and grow strong like other children.”

Josefe is a small-scale farmer from Malawi. He is married with three young children. As the eldest of four siblings, his family also depends on him. Based on the assessment, he cannot afford the cost of the required surgery. In 2022, Josefe was diagnosed with a right inguinal hernia. His symptoms began as a small swelling, which he initially ignored. Over time, the swelling worsened and began interfering with his daily activities. He sought help from several private and government facilities without success. Eventually, he was referred to our medical partner's care center, Partners in Hope Medical Center (PIH), where doctors confirmed the diagnosis and recommended surgery. Fortunately, on March 10th, Josefe will undergo hernia repair surgery. Our medical partner, African Mission Healthcare, is requesting $575 to fund Josefe's surgery. Once completed, this procedure will hopefully allow him to live more comfortably and confidently. "My courage brought me to PIH, knowing I would be assisted and get better; Kindly support my surgery and save my life, which is in danger," said Josefe during the assessment.