This is Marilou Cruz. She is a mom with a 13 year old daughter living on Lapinig Island in the Philippines. She is estranged from her husband and has had to support herself by running a small sari sari store. She was recently diagnosed with a condition called adenomyosis on her uterus that causes extreme pain. Her gynecologist has confirmed this diagnosis with ultrasound and has recommended a hysterectomy to prevent further pain and inflammation. Unfortunately, Marilou has no health insurance or savings to cover the $200,000 pesos needed for the surgery, anesthesia, and medicines.

Secondly, Marilou has developed a growth called Surfers eye on her right eye that is starting to inhibit her vision. This growth is referred to as a pterygium.p A pterygium can threaten human vision by central corneal invasion. In Marilou’s case, the pterygium is advancing toward her pupil and is starting to affect her vision. This growth can be removed with surgery. Again, Marilou has no savings or insurance to cover the cost of $25,000 pesos. I am appealing to all those that can help fund the costs of these surgeries and an additional $25,000 pesos to cover the costs associated with travel to the medical facilities, lodging, recovery medications, and support during her time of recovery and rehabilitation. Marilou is not directly appealing for these funds because she is a private, humble, and proud person who suffers in silence rather than ask for help.