When we hear a baby’s first cry, we often breathe a sigh of relief. But what if that very first cry revealed a life where every breath is a struggle? For Menachem Rivkin, that’s his agonizing reality—born with a condition that connects his esophagus and trachea, he’s never known what it’s like to breathe freely.

Menachem has a chance for normalcy, but the road ahead is steep, both emotionally and financially. The estimated cost of this life-altering surgery is a staggering $500,000. While their insurance covers half, the remaining $250,000 looms large. To make matters more complex, the family would have to relocate from Israel to the United States for at least six months during Menachem’s treatment and recovery—a further strain on their limited resources.

Menachem’s family has put it simply, yet profoundly: “We really can’t do this without your help.”

Take part in this momentous act of humanity; Click here to give Menachem his first true breath. 

*Name has been changed to protect privacy