Meet Venesa, a beautiful two year old girl. She was born at home with a swelling at the lower part of her back, and with legs that were not straight like other babies their family knew. The day after she was born, Venesa's parents took her to the hospital, where she was diagnosed with spina bifida and clubfoot. The family was advised to wait until Venesa turned nine months old, before having her undergo the surgery that she needs. Although surgery was deemed urgent, when Venesa was finally old enough, her parents couldn't afford to pay for it. Then, about a year ago, Venesa was diagnosed with hydrocephalus. Venesa's mom shared that shortly after this last diagnosis, Venesa's father abandoned the family and is not involved in helping support them any more. Venesa's mother used to work at a salon, but after Venesa's birth, she has been unable to work. They are now living with Venesa's grandmother, who does what she can to help. Without surgery for her spina bifida, Venesa risks paralysis of her lower limbs, infection of the exposed nerve tissue, and developmental delays. Our medical partner, African Mission Healthcare Foundation, is requesting $1,151 to cover the cost of Venesa's spina bifida closure surgery. The procedure is scheduled to take place on September 14th, at BethanyKids Kijabe Hospital. This procedure will hopefully spare Venesa from the risks associated with her condition, allowing her to experience a strong and healthy life. Venesa’s mother says: “Since she was born, I have no peace knowing that I can’t afford her treatment.”

Sokchan is a 14-year-old girl and the oldest child in her family. She is older sister to one brother and two sisters. Sokchan's mom is a fish-seller at their local market and her dad is a police officer. At home, Sokchan enjoys reading and researching recipes while learning to cook with her mom. Her favorite meal is fish and vegetables. At school, Sokchan's favorite subject is Cambodian history. When she grows up, she wants to be a police officer just like her dad. Four years ago, Sokchan developed a nasal obstruction that led to runny noses, frequent sneezing, difficulty breathing, and headaches. Because of this, she has missed several days of school. Sokchan and her family visited our medical parter Children's Surgical Centre (CSC) for treatment. On January 18th, the surgeons at CSC will perform bilateral nasal polypectomy to help alleviate Sokchan's symptoms. Sokchan's family has raised $74 toward the cost of the procedure, and CSC is seeking support for the remaining $397. Sokchan's mother shared, "I hope after surgery, Sokchan will feel better and won't miss any more school."

Khorn is a 65-year-old rice farmer from Cambodia. He is married with two sons and one daughter. In addition to farming alongside his wife, Khorn looks after his cows in the field to ensure they have proper food and care. His daughter also supports him and his wife by working in a nearby factory. About fifty years ago, when Khorn was around 15 years old, he suffered a landmine injury from an unexploded ordinance. Since that time, some shrapnel has been stuck in his left shoulder and left thigh, causing him to experience pain and discomfort. Fortunately, Khorn was able to travel to our medical partner's care center to receive treatment. On January 31st, surgeons at our medical partner, Children's Surgical Centre (CSC), will remove the mass. Now, Khorn needs help to raise $273 to fund this procedure. He was also able to contribute $65 to his care. Khorn said, "After surgery, I hope the pain is gone."