Crispin is a 65-year-old father of three from the Philippines. He lives with his wife and daughter. He has two other children who already have their own families. Crispin is currently unemployed and depends on his daughter’s modest income, which only covers their daily needs. He explained that he could only undergo surgery if financial assistance were provided. Despite these challenges, Crispin takes care of himself by avoiding heavy lifting and eating healthier foods. Five months ago, Crispin was diagnosed with an 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. The condition has been causing him pain and difficulty in moving around. Crispin needs to undergo surgery to treat his condition. Fortunately, on May 15th, Crispin will undergo hernia repair surgery at our medical partner's care center, Our Lady of Peace Hospital. A portion of the cost of Crispin'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 ease his suffering, and lift the financial burden on his family, giving them a chance to move forward with dignity and hope. Crispin says, "I am deeply grateful to the Almighty and the Foundation for this surgery, which saves me from falling into debt and gives me hope that more people like me will continue to receive help."

Rafael is a 22-month-old boy from Ethiopia. His mother works in the finance department of a government institution, while his father works in the utilities sector. He is joyful and active child, who loves playing with toys and cars. Rafael has a condition called cryptorchidism, meaning that one of his testicles has not descended. This condition is often not obvious to parents and may not be diagnosed for some time. Fortunately for Rafael, an extended family member was familiar with a related condition and encouraged Rafael’s mother to have him checked. Rafael then had an ultrasound evaluation in which his condition was confirmed, and surgery was recommended. When Rafael’s mother learned about the condition, she became worried and anxious for his future. Without treatment, Rafael has an increased risk of developing hernias, testicular cancer, and future fertility problems. Fortunately, the doctors referred Rafael for surgery at our medical partner’s care center, BethanyKids Myungsung Christian Medical Centre (BKMCM). After about a month, the family was warmly welcomed at BKMCM. Our medical partner, African Mission Healthcare (AMH), has scheduled Rafael’s surgery for August 17th. AMH is requesting $754 to cover the total cost of his procedure and care. Rafael’s mother shared, “Thank you so much to everyone at BethanyKids. I hope Rafael will be healthy and that he will have a successful and peaceful surgery.”

Tamirat is a cheerful four-year-old boy from Ethiopia. He lives with his parents, his older brother, and his older sister in a rented house. He loves playing football with his brother and sister. He also enjoys watching movies and cartoons, and one of his favorite activities is praying. His name, Tamirat, means "miracle." His grandmother chose the name because his mother became seriously ill during her pregnancy as a result of heavy physical work. After Tamirat was born, his mother recovered, and the family considered his birth a miracle from God. One day, Tamirat's uncle was helping him get dressed when he noticed that one of his testicles was not in it's place. Concerned, he advised Tamirat's mother to have him examined. At the health center, a doctor examined Tamirat and he also underwent an ultrasound. He was diagnosed with cryptorchidism, a condition in which one or both of the testicles remain undescended. If left untreated, Tamirat would have an increased risk of developing hernias, testicular cancer, and fertility problems in the future. Tamirat and his mother were referred to a higher-level hospital for further evaluation and treatment, where he was placed on a surgery wait list. Three months later, they were referred to our medical partner's care center, Bethany Kids Myungsung Christian Medical Centre (BKMCM). While Tamirat's mother was relieved that this meant her son would receive treatment soon, it also got her anxious as she knew her family could not afford the cost of surgery. She manually cleans other people's clothes to earn an income, while Tamira's father works as a daily laborer. Despite their hard work, they struggle to provide for their family. Fortunately, our medical partner, African Mission Healthcare, is helping Tamirat receive treatment. On July 20th, he will undergo corrective surgery to treat his condition, and reduce medical risks in the future. Now, Tamirat's family needs help to fund this $754 procedure. Tamirat's mother shared, "I am so happy to have come here to BethanyKids. The welcome we received was wonderful, and all the staff were kind and respectful. Thank you so much. May God bless every one of you. May He continue to bless the work of your hands and reward you for the kindness you show to children like my son."