This Valentines', love knew no bounds for Vanniza

What's more satisfying than a good deed? A good deed that's fully paid off, of course! And that's exactly what happened this Valentine's Day for Vanniza, thanks to one generous Watsi donor.

Meet Vanniza.

Meet six-year-old Vanniza, a second-grader living in rural northern Cambodia. When she's not acing her second-grade classes, she loves jumping rope and watching cartoons like any other kid. But Vanniza had been struggling with recurring infections for years, causing sore throats, difficulty swallowing, and sleepless nights. Her parents, who are mango farmers, traveled over eight hours across the country hoping to find the medical care that their daughter needs to finally feel well.

A gif showing the surgical team at our medical partner Children's Surgical Centre discussing Vanniza's case before her surgery as part of their daily morning meeting.
The surgical team at our medical partner Children's Surgical Centre discussing Vanniza's case before her surgery as part of their daily morning meeting.

Fortunately, Vanniza's family had heard about the amazing surgeons at our medical partner - Children's Surgical Centre in the capital city of Phnom Penh - from a relative who received treatment there for their own child.

Photo of Vanniza with her mother at our medical partner centre in Cambodia
Vanniza with her mother.

When we emailed our community and shared Vanniza's story, one long-time Watsi supporter immediately stepped up and fully funded her life-changing care. Vanniza was finally able to get the surgery she needed to remove her enlarged tonsils and adenoids - a treatment that is common in many parts of the world, but remains out of reach for most children in Cambodia.

Photo of Srey Mouy, our Watsi rep from CSC's ENT Department, checking on Vanniza after her surgery.
Srey Mouy, our Watsi rep from CSC's ENT Department, checking on Vanniza after her surgery.

The best part? The very next day after her surgery, Vanniza was already feeling better and eating more than before!

And just like that, Vanniza's health journey has taken a turn for the better! Vanniza can now breathe easier and sleep soundly - which means more energy for jumping rope and watching her favorite cartoons, of course. Her mom expressed her gratitude, saying, "Thank you for helping my daughter. I had a good feeling at the hospital, and I won't worry about her health anymore."

Vanniza was full of joy and already feeling better after her surgery.
Vanniza was full of joy and already feeling better after her surgery. 

It's truly heartwarming to hear how our patients and their families' spirits are lifted when they realize that there are people out there who care about them and are willing to help. Most times, it feels almost unbelievable for them.

None of this would have been possible without the incredible support of Watsi donors who truly make a lasting difference in the lives of people around the world. Vanniza's family can now rest easy knowing that their daughter is on the road to recovery, and all thanks to the kindness of strangers. It's no longer unbelievable for them, but now a reality that has come true.

So, here's to Vanniza and her bright future ahead - we can't wait to see all the amazing things she'll accomplish! And to our generous community of donors, keep spreading the love and making the world a better place, one donation at a time.

Make HTML Link Look Like a Button
Support a patient on Watsi today

The Watsi Team

The Watsi Team

Everyone deserves healthcare.