Dara is a 52-year-old tuk-tuk driver from Cambodia. He lives in Phnom Penh with his wife, son, and two daughters. His wife is a stay-at-home mom, his oldest son works in an office, and his two younger daughters are in school. When he is not working, Dara likes to spend time with his family. Dara has had diabetes since he was in his early thirties. On July 4th, Dara stepped on a nail. His left toes became red and swollen, and a bad blister formed the following day. Dara has developed a foot ulcer and experiences pain, swelling, and discharge. Currently, Dara cannot walk easily or drive his tuk-tuk. Diabetes can increase the risk of foot infections due to reduced blood circulation, and proper foot care is essential to reduce the risk of complication When Dara learned about our medical partner, Children's Surgical Centre, he traveled to their treatment center to see if they can help. On July 14th, surgeons at CSC will perform a debridement procedure to remove the infected tissue from the wound and help it heal. CSC is requesting $324 to fund this procedure. Dara contributed $50 to his care. Dara said, "I hope that my foot will heal and I can walk normally again."

Medius, a mother of three and a small-scale farmer, attained education up to the 7th grade in primary school but discontinued her studies due to insufficient funds to cover the school fees. Working alongside her husband, they now cultivate a diverse range of crops, including beans, cabbages, and other produce. They sell a portion of their harvest to generate funds for their children's education. Their eldest child is fourteen years old and currently in the third year of secondary school. The second child is twelve years old and studying in the fourth grade of primary school, while the youngest is ten and attends the third grade of primary school. Eight months ago, Medius noticed a minor swelling under her armpit. Initially, it was merely itchy; she could relieve the itch by scratching it. Over time, the swelling gradually grew in size. Eventually, Medius started experiencing discomfort and decided to seek medical assistance. Although she received treatment, it only provided temporary relief from the pain. Now the excruciating pains stemming from the affected area have significantly impaired Medius' arm mobility, making it exceedingly challenging for her to move it comfortably. As a result, she has been forced to cease her farming activities. Medius used to actively participate in singing at her church, but due to her condition, she can no longer clap her hands while singing either. To seek relief, Medius embarked on a journey to our medical partner's care center, where she will undergo surgery on June 13th to remove the mass. However, she requires assistance in raising the necessary funds amounting to $145, to cover the cost of this crucial procedure. Medius says, “My condition has greatly affected my productivity and other day-to-day activities. I pray that I may get well through surgery. I will plan to start farming again after recovery.”

Phoem is an elderly widow from Kompong Speu province in Cambodia. She is a retired rice farmer with one daughter, three sons, and nine grandchildren. She lives alone in a small house near her oldest son, and loves spending time with her family, and watching Cambodian soap operas. About one year ago, Phoem developed a cataract in her right eye, causing her to experience itchiness, tearing, and blurry vision. She has difficulty seeing things clearly, and is uncomfortable going out on her own, due to her impaired vision. When Phoem learned about our medical partner, Children's Surgical Centre, she traveled for three and a half hours seeking treatment. On August 7th, doctors at Kien Khleang National Rehabilitation Centre will perform small incision cataract surgery, and implant an intraocular lens in her right eye. After she has recovered, Phoem will be able to see clearly. Now, she needs your help to fund this $253 procedure. Phoem shared: "I want to be able to take better care of myself and be able to plant vegetables around my house without my eye causing problems."