I write to share a short, uplifting story about a young boy, Jonas, who lives in a small home made of packed mud and tree branches near Makiungu Village in the rolling hills of central Tanzania. 

Jonas and his father walked together and shared a series of long bus rides in the high heat and dust for several days to arrive at a hospital in Itigi. Their dream? They hoped for treatment that might transform Jonas' future.  

When he was three, Jonas sustained a difficult and painful injury, a deep burn on his left hand and arm. Contractions in his skin and other complications followed. Fortunately, the sparkle in his deep brown eyes, joy in his smile, and hope in his spirit remained bright.

Today, after critical surgery, Jonas' path holds new promise.

We produced this story to support a spring fundraising campaign for ReSurge International, a nonprofit organization dedicated to building global surgical capacity for the poor. The production was made possible through a collaboration with Bob Whitehill, a dear friend, talented editor, and gifted storyteller. 

During 2014 and 2015, I traveled to Bangladesh, Tanzania, and Zambia to provide documentary support for ReSurge. I witnessed the impact of essential surgery and physical therapy and developed tremendous admiration for volunteers and health care professionals dedicated to this cause. Wonderful memories from my time with grateful parents and playful children linger.

Thank you for sharing these moments with Jonas. Best wishes are sent your way,

Jeff