Dah is a 52-year-old woman from Burma. She lives with her husband, two daughters, and a son in the village in Karen State, Burma. Dah and her husband work as agricultural day laborers. Currently, Dah experiences back pain while sitting for long periods. She was diagnosed with gallstones and has been advised to undergo a cholecystectomy, the surgical removal of the gallbladder. If left untreated, Dah's symptoms will continue to worsen and put her at risk for further health complications in the future. After seeking treatment through our medical partner, Burma Children Medical Fund (BCMF), Dah is scheduled to undergo her cholecystectomy on June 25th. BCMF is requesting $1,500 to cover the total cost of Dah's procedure and care. Dah said, “We do not have work every day. If there is work available but I have back and stomach pain, I cannot work, so we do not have income for the day that I did not get to work. I wish I could get the surgery and be free from this pain, but I do not have the money. Thank you so much for helping me. Without your help, I had decided that I would just stay with the stone inside me for the rest of my life.”

Abubeker is a 10-year-old student from Ethiopia. He is the 3rd grade, and is the oldest of three brothers. His father father works as a retailer, while his mother is a home maker. Since he was about four years old, Abubeker has been experiencing chronic tonsil problems. The condition has caused heavy snoring and severe sleep challenges that impact his rest at night. Abubeker has also missed school frequently due to sickness, which is hurting his school work and focus in class. Abubeker was reviewed at Saglan Wajee General Hospital, and was diagnosed with enlarged tonsils and adenoids, which, if not treated, will cause his symptoms to persist and possibly intensify over time. Abubeker's family is seeking to raise $700 to fund a tonsillectomy, which is scheduled to take place on September 20th. Surgeons will remove his tonsils, hopefully relieving Abubeker of his symptoms, and helping him live more comfortably. His mother says, "Carrying the weight of a child's ill health and sleepless nights is heavy, yet our one hope is to watch him heal and see his joyful spirit return."

Bernardo is 65-year-old grandfather from the Philippines. He and his wife rely on the modest income from their small sari-sari store to support their household. He enjoys watching videos on his cellphone and cherishes spending time with his grandson, who brings him so much joy. Before his health issues worsened, Bernardo was working hard on becoming more physically active so that he can be present for his grandson. About eighteen months ago, Bernardo began to experience the symptoms of an inguinal hernia. These symptoms have escalated over time, causing him excruciating abdominal pain that has rendering him immobile. This pain interferes with his daily activities, his time with his grandson, and his goal to become healthier. Fortunately, on August 6th, Bernardo will undergo hernia repair surgery at our medical partner's care center, Our Lady of Peace Hospital. A portion of the cost of Bernardo'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 hopefully allow him to live more comfortably and confidently. He will be able to continue caring for his family and enjoy more time with his grandchild. Bernardo shared, “I am grateful for the opportunity to receive free surgery. I look forward to recovering so I can stay active, care for my grandchild, and spend more quality time with my family.”