Penlope is a 42-year-old mother of three children, with all her children in school. She does farming together with her husband and what they earn helps to meet their day to day needs. Penlope is expecting a new baby and has been having antenatal care at Nyakibale Hospital. At her last visit, the medical team has recommended she delivery via cesarian section to ensure a safe delivery. She is not able to raise the funds needed for surgery and appeals for help. Penlope shared: “I hope to deliver well this time, in safe hands, and I expect all to be well with your support.”

Pamella is a 26-year-old farmer who lives with her husband and child in rural Uganda. When she was young, Pamella dropped out of school because she was unable to cover the necessary fees, and began working in the city. After getting married, she returned to her village, where she enjoys growing crops such as maize, beans and potatoes, which they rely upon to feed their family. Pamella's husband operates a motorcycle business. For two years, Pamella has had a supraumbilical hernia. The hernia, which presents as a swelling on her abdominal wall and which can be painful, prevents Pamella from doing the strenuous work necessary for growing her crops. She came to the hospital in nearby Nyakibale, where surgery was recommended. She now needs help to cover the cost of her surgery, which is scheduled for May 10th at the Karoli Lwanga Hospital. Our medical partner, African Mission Healthcare, is requesting $230 to fund Pamella's surgery. Once completed, this procedure should allow her to live more comfortably and confidently. Pamella says: “I can’t wait for the day I will wake up only to find that I am free from this pain.”

Mao is a retired rice farmer. She is 72-years-old with three daughters, four sons, and many grandchildren. Since her husband passed away during the Khmer Rouge regime, she has lived with her oldest daughter who is a farmer. At home, Mao likes to listen to the monks pray on the radio and visit the community pagoda to cook for the monks. Three years ago, Mao developed a cataract in her left eye, causing her blurred vision and trouble seeing in bright or low lights. She has difficulty seeing things clearly, including colors and faces, and is worried about falling when walking, making it difficult to perform her desired activities. When Mao learned about our medical partner, Children's Surgical Centre, she traveled for three and a half hours seeking treatment. On May 4th, doctors will perform a small incision cataract surgery, and an intraocular lens implant in her left eye. After recovery, she will be able to see clearly. Now, she needs help to fund this $253 procedure. Says Mao: "I hope after surgery I can see well again. I want to recognize the faces of my relatives, go outside and take care of myself well."