Vincent is a seven-year-old student from Mali. About three weeks ago, he began experiencing swelling in his inguinal region, and a loss of appetite. Concerned, his parents brought him to our medical partner's care center, Centre de Santé de Référence (CSREF) Commune 6, for a medical review. At CSREF, Vincent underwent a clinical examination aided by ultrasound. He was diagnosed with a left inguino-scrotal hernia, a condition where abdominal tissue protrude through a weak spot in the abdominal wall and extends downwards. Fortunately, on October 13th, he will undergo hernia repair surgery at CSREF. Our medical partner, Muso, is requesting $377 to fund Vincent's surgery. Once completed, this procedure will hopefully allow him to live a healthier life. "Our wish is to see our son in good health," Vincent parent's said.

Pov is a determined 17-year-old student from Cambodia. He lives in Kandal Province with his parents and is the youngest of five siblings, all of whom are married. His father sells drinking water, and his mother stays at home to care for the family and manage household tasks. He is currently studying in Grade 11 and enjoys physics. He dreams of becoming a doctor in the future. His favorite meals are soups, especially those with lots of vegetables, and he enjoys playing football with his friends in his free time. Eleven months ago, Pov sustained electrical burns to both hands in an accident. As the wounds healed, severe scar contractures developed, affecting the right first finger webspace and the left fifth finger. The scar contractures have tightened the skin and limited movement in both hands. This makes it difficult for him to grasp objects, hold items properly, and write his school lessons. He also feels self-conscious about the appearance of his scars and often hides them by wearing long sleeves. Pov sought treatment with our medical partner, Children's Surgical Centre (CSC). On May 21st, surgeons at CSC will perform a burn contracture release surgery to improve hand movement and restore better function. This treatment will help him write more easily, hold objects comfortably, and regain confidence in using his hands for daily activities and school. His family can contribute $25, but needs help raising $627 more to fund his procedure and care. Pov said, “I hope this surgery will help my hands move normally again so I can write my lessons easily, hold things without difficulty, and feel confident without needing to hide my scars anymore.”

Kry is a 68-year-old woman from Cambodia. She is a retired textile handicraft worker. She is a widow, as her husband died in a land mine 43 years ago. She has one son and three grandchildren. She lives in the pagoda, likes to listen to the monks pray on the radio, and read books. About two years ago, Kry developed a cataract in her left eye, causing her itchiness, tearing, and blurry vision. A cataract is a clouding of the lens of the eye, so it is like looking through a frosty or fogged-up window. She has difficulty seeing things clearly, including colors and faces, and is worried about falling when walking, so she is not able to go places on her own. When Kry learned about our medical partner, Children's Surgical Centre, she traveled three hours to seek treatment. On September 7th, doctors will perform a phacoemulsification cataract surgery and an intraocular lens implant in her left eye. After recovery, she will be able to see clearly. She can contribute $25, but needs help raising $238 more to fund her procedure and care. Kry said, "I hope after surgery my eye can see better so I can go out and recognize my relatives, read my books, and join ceremonies at the pagoda."