Ferdinand is a father of two from the Philippines. He has one son and one daughter. Both he and his wife both work as public school teachers. Their income is still insufficient for their needs, however and, in addition to supporting their children, part of their salary goes to their medication for diabetes and hypertension. In September, Ferdinand began to experience several troubling symptoms, including severe abdominal pain. He was rushed to an emergency room to be treated. The ultrasound test showed that he has gallstones. Ferdinand has been advised to undergo a cholecystectomy which is the surgical removal of the gallbladder. If left untreated, his symptoms will continue to worsen and will put him at risk of further health complications in the future. After seeking treatment through our medical partner, World Surgical Foundation Philippines (WSFP), Ferdinand is scheduled to undergo a cholecystectomy on December 3rd. A portion of the cost of the procedure is being supported by the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, and WSFP is raising the remaining $826 to cover the cost of Ferdinand's surgery and care. "Because of my condition, I'm in constant pain which hinders me from doing my usual activities. I've tried to reach out for help to our local government but was unsuccessful," Ferdinand shared. "I am glad there are foundations like Watsi and World Surgical Foundation Philippines that exist. I'm forever grateful for the help that you've given me," he added.

Sylivia, who is 51-years-old, is the mother of four children. Their family lives in Uganda, where Sylivia and her husband practice small scale farming to provide for their family. For the past year, Sylivia has been experiencing severe and abnormal bleeding, and lower abdominal pain. She has had to undergo a blood transfusion twice, and doctors have recommended surgery to remove the uterine fibroids that are the cause of Sylivia's symptoms. Our medical partner, African Mission Healthcare Foundation, is requesting $219 to fund the hysterectomy that Sylivia needs. On January 19th, she will undergo gynecological surgery at Karoli Lwanga Hospital, which should allow her to resume a healthy, pain free life. Sylivia says: “All my hopes of getting better are by undergoing surgery, I hope with your support, I will surely get better.”

Roeun is a 68-year-old rice farmer from Prey Veng province. She is a widow with one son, one daughter, and six grandchildren. She lives with her daughter who supports them by working in a garment factory. She enjoys going to the pagoda to pray, growing vegetables, and gardening around her house. Five years ago, Roeun developed a cataract in her right eye, causing her blurry vision, sensitivity to light, and tearing. She has difficulty seeing things clearly, including colors and faces, and is worried about falling when walking, thus she is unable to travel on her own. When Roeun learned about our medical partner, Children's Surgical Centre, she traveled for two hours seeking treatment. On February 13th, doctors will perform a small incision cataract surgery and implant an intraocular lens in her right eye. After recovery, she will be able to see clearly. Roeun needs help to fund this $253 procedure. She said, "I hope after this surgery I can take care of my grandchildren and help with the housework more."