Maung is a 43-year-old father from Burma with two daughters. He used to work as a boatman, ferrying people to and from the island across from where they live; however, he had to stop working two years ago when a stroke weakened the left side of his body. Maung’s mother supported the family until she developed severe diabetes and can now only provide them with rice. Maung’s daughters are students; however, due to the current wave of COVID-19 infections and teachers protesting the country’s recent coup, all schools are closed. As a result, his youngest daughter is looking after household chores, while his oldest daughter has found work to support the family. She works as a shop vendor and earns about 80,000 kyats (approx. $80 USD) per month. Maung’s family shared that their current income is insufficient to cover daily needs or basic health care.
About a month and a half ago, Maung’s left toe became very itchy, and, eventually, the skin turned red and darkened further around his toe. Initially, Maung thought the skin was healing; however, the skin became hot, itchy, and painful. The area on his left toe later turned black, with the surrounding skin reddening. Maung was unable to see a doctor due to his family’s limited income. Currently, the pain in his left toe makes it difficult to sleep and get around.
Fortunately, in mid-September, Maung’s relatives came to visit the family. When they saw Maung’s toe, they were able to help him visit our medical partner’s care center, Mawlamyine Christian Leprosy Hospital (MCLH). On September 21st, doctors examined Maung’s toe and ordered a blood test. He was diagnosed with diabetes and gangrene on his left big toe. Maung will need to undergo surgery to clean and remove the necrotic tissue and help him heal. Our medical partner, Burma Children Medical Fund, is requesting $694 to fund this procedure.
Maung shared, “After surgery, I will no longer be in pain … I will try to find some work to support my family.”
