“When I grow up, I want to be a doctor,” says nine-year-old Ly, a second-grade student from Cambodia who enjoys reading books and doing homework. He traveled one hour with his mom to reach Watsi’s medical partner, Children’s Surgical Centre, for treatment of his ear.
Ly has had recurring infections in his left ear since he was five years old. This has caused left ear discharge and hearing loss, and he has developed a cholesteaoma—an abnormal skin growth located behind his eardrum. The tympanic membrane (eardrum) is perforated on the left side. He experiences headaches and has a hard time hearing his teacher in class.
For $809, a surgeon will perform a mastoidectomy to remove the cholesteatoma and fix the perforated tympanic membrane. Funding also covers the costs of two hearing tests, one night in the hospital, one day of inpatient post-operative care, and three outpatient follow-up visits in the month following surgery. Once Ly heals, the discharge will stop, and over time, his hearing can improve.
Ly’s mother looks forward to a successful operation for her son. “I hope after the operation is done, my son’s ear discharge will stop, and he can have good hearing and health,” she shares.