Meet Aung, a shy 11-year-old boy from Burma who loves the company of animals. Aung lives with his parents and two brothers, who attend school. Aung has dropped out of school because of students teasing him about his condition. Aung was born with a neural tube defect called encephalocele. "The mass on Aung's nose was present at birth and was the size of a finger print," reports our medical partner, Burma Border Projects (BBP). "It has since grown substantially over the years. Aung explained that the mass is very tender to touch and if it gets accidentally knocked it causes his eyes to tear up." The encephalocele has also made Aung very self conscious. "When asked if he would like to return to school after treatment he said he doesn't want to, favoring to work in the field and tending to cows and buffalo instead," BBP continues. "Aung's father said he desperately wants to see his son be educated and hopes treatment will allow this dream to be realized." However, despite numerous attempts to get him treatment, Aung’s parents have been told that he requires costly surgery that is out of reach for their family. Aung’s family works very hard to raise money for his treatment. His father earns $40-$50 a month and Aung’s brother tends to the neighbors’ goats for some pocket money. For $1,500, we can help. Aung can receive the surgery that will improve his appearance and confidence, allowing him to attend school and receive an education.