Thiago is a three-year-old boy from Bolivia. He lives with his parents, who both work in agriculture, and his two older siblings. Thiago's story of being diagnosed with a heart problem is unique. He accompanied his parents in a protest march against a law that threatened their community, walking for 28 days from the Bolivian Amazon to the city of La Paz. When they finally arrived, the high altitude of the city affected Thiago's breathing, causing the family to seek medical care. Doctors then discovered that Thiago has Tetralogy of Fallot, a heart condition involving a hole between two lower chambers of the heart, as well as a blockage that affects how blood flows out of the heart. As a result, Thiago does not get enough oxygen, leaving him weak and short of breath. On May 26th, he will undergo cardiac surgery at our medical partner's care center, Hospital del Niño Dr. Ovidio Aliaga Uría. During surgery, doctors will close the hole in his heart and remove the blockage so that blood can flow normally. Thiago's family needs help to fund the costs of cardiac care and surgery. Our medical partner, International Cardiac Alliance, requests $1,500 to cover the cost of cardiac exams and diagnostics, surgical costs, follow-up care, and medications. Thiago's father shares, "We are so happy that our son's surgery has been scheduled for this week, and we hope for the best."

Jeremiah is a two-year-old baby boy born to humble small-scale farmers in Uganda. Since birth, Jeremiah has been suffering from hydrocele, a collection of fluid in the scrotal sac, which causes it to swell. The condition has been causing him much discomfort and pain, especially when playing with other children his age. As the condition persisted, Jeremiah’s mother became increasingly worried about his health and future well-being. Determined to seek help for her son despite the family’s financial hardships, she brought him to our medical partner's care center, Rushoroza Hospital for assessment. Jeremiah needs to undergo a hydrocelectomy, a surgery to correct the condition and prevent future complications. Doctors have explained that if the hydrocele is not treated in time, the accumulated fluid may later become infected and could expose Jeremiah to serious complications such as testicular torsion, chronic pain, and health problems that may interfere with his growth and development. Our medical partner, African Mission Healthcare, is helping Jeremiah receive treatment. On June 2nd, he will undergo hydrocele repair surgery to restore his health, relieve pain, and help him grow into a healthy child like his peers. Now, Jeremiah's family needs help to fund this $220 procedure. His mother says, “Every mother dreams of seeing her child healthy and happy. I pray for support, so that my son can receive treatment and grow without pain.”

Tristan is a 25-year-old hardworking provider from the Philippines. He helps support his family alongside his father and has been hoping to transfer to a higher-paying job to better provide for their household. However, four months ago, Tristan was diagnosed with an inguinal hernia, which causes him discomfort and prevents him from lifting heavy objects. This has limited his options for finding new work. Fortunately, on June 5th, Tristan will undergo hernia repair surgery at our medical partner's care center, Our Lady of Peace Hospital. A portion of the cost of Tristan's treatment is being supported by the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation. Our medical partner is raising the remaining $1,038 to cover the cost of his surgery and care. Once completed, this procedure will hopefully allow him to live more comfortably and confidently. Tristan said, "I am very grateful for the opportunity to receive free surgery because it will help me recover without adding financial stress to my family. I look forward to getting better so I can continue working and supporting my loved ones."