"I Feel Like a Warrior"

When you support Open Arms, you provide critical medicine for children with chronic diseases - children like Ben, who has sickle cell disease.

Sickle cell disease lowers the oxygen level in your blood, making it hard for vital organs to get the oxygen they need. It can be deadly - close to 80% of babies who have sickle cell die before they turn five.

Ben came to Open Arms Village when he was a toddler. Statistically, he should have died soon after. But he didn’t!

Because of you, Ben has received consistent medical care throughout his life. He’s now a strong, resourceful thriving teenager. He has never missed a day of school (until now), and his teachers call him one of their most joyful students.

Ben was able to move back home with his father last year, but he continues to receive his daily medication from Open Arms so he can stay healthy and strong.

“When I think about my health, I don’t feel like a victim or a burden, I feel like a warrior. Thank you so much for helping me so that I can see this day” (Ben).

Note: While this story is true, names and photos have been changed to protect the identity and privacy of our children.