Kelemua is a hardworking widow from Ethiopia who, at 80 years old, still supports her five sons by farming the land. However, she is losing her independence because of severe cataracts. Her vision is severely clouded, causing light sensitivity and making it difficult for her to move around safely. Her daily farm work and household chores now pose a risk of injury with her limited eyesight. And she is no longer able to contribute to the family’s income or do the work she loves. Two years ago, Kelemua developed a cataract in both eyes, causing her pain, blurry vision, and tearing. A cataract is a clouding of the lens of the eye, blurring vision. She has difficulty seeing things clearly, recognizing faces, and going anywhere outside. Fortunately, Kelemua is scheduled to undergo cataract surgery on June 10th, when surgeons will remove and replace the blurred lens in both eyes. After recovery, she will be able to see clearly and resume her daily activities. Our medical partner, Saglan Wajee General Hospital, is requesting $300 to fund her procedure. "My greatest hope is to regain my sight so I can move around safely again. I miss working on the farm and helping out at home, and I want to get back to contributing to my family’s life," said Kelemua.

Segundo is a 59-year old man from the Philippines who works as a driver. His wife is unemployed, and they occasionally receive help with household expenses from their child, who runs a small business. Segundo has been living with thyroid concerns for the last year. Still, he pushes through to enjoy singing during special occasions and family gatherings. Segundo remains hopeful about his recovery and shared that undergoing free surgery would ease his family's financial stress and keep them from having to borrow money to pay for his treatment. A year ago, Segundo began to experience troubling symptoms, including periodic palpitations and a throbbing sensation in his eyes. He was diagnosed with multinodular non-toxic goiter and needs surgery to heal. A recent ultrasound showed that the number and size of his thyroid nodules had increased, prompting concern from his family and a desire to have surgery before his condition worsens. Fortunately, our medical partner, World Surgical Foundation Philippines (WSFP), is helping Segundo receive treatment. On August 29th, he will undergo a thyroidectomy at Our Lady of Peace Hospital. During this procedure, surgeons will remove all or part of his thyroid gland. Part of his treatment cost is covered by the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, and our medical partner, World Surgical Foundation Philippines, is raising the remaining $935 to cover the cost of Segundo's procedure and care. Segundo said, "I am deeply grateful for this opportunity to receive free surgery. I look forward to getting better and continuing to enjoy singing and spending time with my family without worrying about my health."

Ephraim is a 51-year-old man from Malawi. He is a father of five, and lives with his wife, three of his children, and three grandchildren. He depends on farming to provide for his family, growing maize and groundnuts. Although farming does not bring him much income, it usually provides enough food for the family and gives Ephraim a way to support those who depend on him. About a year ago, Ephraim started experiencing uncomfortable symptoms, prompting him to depend on medication and a catheter. Determined to find a lasting solution, he sought care from several hospitals but did not get the relief he needed. His family encouraged him to seek further treatment at our medical partner's care center, Nkhoma Mission Hospital. Upon examination, he was diagnosed with benign prostatic hyperplasia. Physicians at Nkhoma Hospital have determined that Ephraim should undergo a prostatectomy, a surgery to remove part or all of the prostate. Our medical partner, African Mission Healthcare, is requesting $530 to fund this procedure. The treatment is scheduled to take place at Nkhoma Hospital on September 9th and, once completed, it will hopefully improve Ephraim's quality of life. Ephraim said, "My hope is that this health problem will finally be resolved, so that I can return to living healthier again, and being there for my family."