Kalkidan is a 26-year-old woman living in Ethiopia with her husband and their six-month-old baby. Her husband works hard as a taxi driver to support the family.
When she was seven months pregnant, Kalkidan became very sick with a painful gallbladder problem. She was experiencing nausea and vomiting, and intense pain in her abdomen. Due to financial challenges, the family has not been able to afford the doctor and the medicine she needs. And, over the last three months, the pain has gotten much worse. It has become very difficult for Kalkidan to look after her home and to take care of her baby.
Doctors evaluated Kalkidan, and diagnosed her with a severe inflammation of the gallbladder. They have recommended that she undergo a cholecystectomy, which is surgery to remove the gallbladder.
Our medical partner, Saglan Wajee General Hospital, is requesting $900 for this procedure, which is scheduled to take place on August 16th. Once she has recovered from the surgery, Kalkidan will hopefully live a healthier and more active life.
“I am not worried about myself at all. My only thought is for my baby; he needs me, and I cannot wait to be completely healthy so I can finally be there for him.” said Kalkidan.

