Ulemu is a friendly 11-year-old boy, the firstborn of two children from Malawi. The family lives in a small, single-room mud-built house with a thatched roof. His mother earns a living by selling tomatoes from a small bench outside their home, and the family depends largely on this income to meet their daily needs. Ulemu's mother shared that he has been experiencing pain that often starts in his groin area, and travels up towards his abdomen, around the navel. She noticed that the pain is particularly severe during cold weather. She took him to the referral hospital several times in search of medical help, but unfortunately the surgery list was always long, and he has not been able to receive the surgery he needed. After hearing from several friends that Nkhoma Hospital was providing surgical services, she decided to bring him there. Getting to Nkhoma was not easy for the family. Because of their limited resources, even finding transport was a challenge. The journey took around five hours, and during the trip, his mother had to carry Ulemu on her lap at times. At Nkhoma Hospital, Ulemu was assessed and diagnosed with a left 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. Doctors explained that he would need surgery to correct the condition. For Ulemu's mother, finally receiving a diagnosis brought some relief, but learning about the cost of treatment brought another worry. The family could not afford the surgery fees. Ulemu's illness has also affected his education. For a boy who has recently completed his primary school examinations, his mother hopes that treatment will allow him to continue with his education without the interruptions caused by pain. Fortunately, Ulemu is scheduled to undergo hernia repair surgery at Nkhoma Hospital. Our medical partner, African Mission Healthcare, is requesting $421 to fund Ulemu's hernia repair surgery. The procedure will take place on August 13th and, once completed, will provide Ulemu relief from the pain that has affected his childhood and education. Ulemu's mother said, “I want my son to receive the help he needs, so that he can be well again and continue with his education.”

Luis Angel is student from Colombia. He is a very outgoing, cheerful, intelligent, and quick-witted boy who loves to explore the world around him. He is an excellent student and excels especially in math. He really enjoys playing and interacting with other children. He also loves to dance, sing and has a deep love for animals. He is an affectionate boy who constantly shows his care for others. Eight years ago, Luis Angel was diagnosed with an umbilical hernia, a condition in which a small portion of abdominal tissue protrudes through the navel. Umbilical hernias usually cause mild discomfort or tenderness around the navel, especially when the child cries, coughs, or strains. They can also cause visible swelling, making the belly button protrude, which sometimes leads to discomfort. At this stage, Luis Angel experiences abdominal pain, which sometimes makes it difficult for him to engage in activities, such as playing or participating in sports. Although it generally does not cause severe pain, it does cause discomfort that makes it difficult for him to perform daily activities, such as playing, jumping, and fully enjoying his childhood. Additionally, if not treated properly, there is a risk of complications. Fortunately, on June 24th, he will undergo repair surgery at our medical partner's care center. Our medical partner, Clinica Noel, is requesting $1,005 to fund Luis Angel's surgery. Once completed, this procedure will hopefully allow him to live more comfortably. Luis Angel's parent shared, "To anyone who wishes to support my son financially, I would like to begin by expressing my sincere gratitude for thinking of a child’s well-being and future. Your help contributes to making my son’s dreams come true and gives him the opportunity to achieve a better quality of life. After the surgery, we hope he will be able to develop fully, without limitations, discomfort, or pain that prevent him from carrying out his daily and athletic activities. With this, he will be able to demonstrate his full potential and begin to chart his path toward fulfilling his dreams."

Roberto is a resilient 56-year-old man from the Philippines. He is currently unemployed and relies on his brother for food and daily support. He had previously worked as a messenger but had to stop after being advised by the doctor to avoid lifting heavy objects. Two months ago, Roberto 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 caused him anxiety and has prevented him from working. Doctors have recommended a hernia repair surgery to treat his condition. Fortunately, on May 16th, Roberto will undergo hernia repair surgery at our medical partner's care center, Our Lady of Peace Hospital. A portion of the cost of 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 hopefully allow him to live more comfortably and confidently. Roberto says, "Many thanks to the foundation and to all the people who helped me and became instruments of God in supporting me through this difficult time. May God continue to guide, protect, and bless you, and may your kindness be returned to you many times over."