Velonika, a 52-year-old woman from Malawi, is married and has four children. She and her husband engage in farming to support their family. Five years ago, Velonika began to experience small, painless swelling on her neck. Over time, the swelling grew larger without affecting her daily life. In 2022, the swelling became noticeable, prompting her to cover her neck until the end of the year. In 2023, Veronica developed symptoms like frequent coughs and neck heaviness. Despite visiting a traditional healer, her condition worsened. Velonika was referred to our medical partner's care center, Partners in Hope Medical Center, where surgeons noted signs of hyperthyroidism and conducted necessary tests. Her thyroid function tests were normal, and the ultrasound scanning revealed a heterogeneous mass on the right lobe. She was diagnosed with a goiter, the swelling of the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland, located in front of the neck, produces thyroid hormones that regulate metabolism, growth, and other bodily functions. Surgery is necessary to address the systems and prevent conditions from worsening. Our medical partner, African Mission Healthcare, is providing Velonika with the necessary treatment. She is scheduled to undergo a thyroidectomy on July 7th, where surgeons will remove all or part of her thyroid gland. This procedure will cost $1,015, and she and her family need help raising money. Velonika shared, "Pains have forced me to come all the way from the village after noting your support. Kindly help me in time since I don't have anyone in town."

Joel is a young student from Bolivia. He lives with his grandfather, who works in construction. Joel's mom works in Brazil in order to earn some money to send to the family. This year, Joel's grandfather noticed Joel looked very tired when walking, and his lips turned purple. Joel was diagnosed with a heart condition called Tetralogy of Fallot. This involves 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, Joel does not get enough oxygen, leaving him weak and short of breath. On September 2nd, Joel 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. Joel'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. Joel's grandfather says, "Joel likes to go to school and have friends. I pray his surgery goes well so he can be healthy and return home."

Salimu is a 22-year-old young man from Malawi, who lives with and cares for his mother. He has an older brother who cares for their younger brother, who is currently in Form 4. Following his parents' separation when he was in secondary school, Salimu dropped out of school due to a lack of school fees, and joined his mother in selling second-hand clothes. He presently works in a film show room, earning about $20 per month - barely enough to support the household. In late 2025, Salimu was diagnosed with a right inguinal hernia, a condition that occurs when abdominal tissue protrudes through a weak spot in the lower abdominal muscles, causing a bulge in the groin area. He has been experiencing swelling episodes that have continued to worsen, significantly impacting his daily activities and ability to work. Surgery has been recommended, and he is hopeful that it will restore his health and enable him to resume his role in supporting his mother and contributing meaningfully to the household. However, Salimu is unable to afford the treatment costs. Fortunately, on April 9th, Salimu will undergo hernia repair surgery with the help of our medical partner, African Mission Healthcare. He is able to contribute towards the cost of his treatment, but still needs help raising an additonal $575 to fund the procedure. Salimu says, "As a young man, I humbly seek your support for medical treatment, so that I can continue supporting my mother."