Sokhom is a 71-year-old Khmer bamboo handicrafter from Kampot province, Cambodia. He is married and has three sons, three daughters, and eight grandchildren. He lives with his wife, who works as a rice farmer in their rural community. In his free time, Sokhom enjoys listening to the news and educational programs on his small radio. About a year ago, Sokhom developed a cataract in his right eye due to old age. This caused itching, tearing, and severe blurry vision. A cataract is a clouding of the lens of the eye, making it feel like looking through a frosted or fogged-up window. Because of this, Sokhom has difficulty seeing clearly, including colors and faces, and he worries about falling when walking, so he cannot go places independently. When Sokhom learned about our medical partner, Children's Surgical Centre, he traveled three hours to seek treatment. On February 2nd, doctors will perform phacoemulsification cataract surgery and implant an intraocular lens in his right eye; a procedure during which the cataract is removed and a new intraocular lens is permanently inserted in its place. After recovery, he hopes to see clearly again. Sokhom can contribute $12.50 to his care, but needs help to raise $251 more. Sokhom said, “I hope after the surgery, my eye can see well, I can continue my job, and can go far on my own.”

Marietou is a young woman from Mali. She is a stay-at-home mother who cares for her two-year-old daughter. During her free time, she enjoys being with her family. Marietou is pregnant, and her doctors recommend that she deliver via a caesarean section because of a high-risk pregnancy. This way, doctors can ensure the safety of both mother and child. Our medical partner, Muso, is helping Marietou undergo a C-Section on April 28th. This procedure will cost $259, and Marietou needs your support. Marietou shared, "With your support, I hope my baby will be healthy."

Mark is a 32-year-old man from the Philippines. He is the oldest of seven siblings and helps support his family. His father works as a construction laborer, while his mother stays at home. Mark recently started work assisting with solar insulation, but his job is not yet stable. In his free time, he enjoys cooking and playing basketball. Three months ago, Mark began to experience troubling symptoms, including abdominal pain and difficulty breathing. He has been advised to undergo a cholecystectomy, the surgical removal of the gallbladder. If left untreated, his symptoms will continue to worsen and put him at risk for further health complications in the future. After seeking treatment through our medical partner, World Surgical Foundation Philippines (WSFP), Mark is scheduled to undergo a cholecystectomy on April 10th. A portion of the cost of the procedure is being supported by the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, and WSFP is requesting the remaining $1,031 to cover the cost of Mark’s surgery and care. Mark shared, “I am truly grateful for the chance to receive this operation, as it will ease my financial burden and allow me to focus on recovery. My heartfelt thanks to those who will give their support and kindness.”