Saw Kaw is a 38-year-old man from Burma. He is a soldier for the Karen National Union (KNU) and moves around frequently.
In December 2016, Saw Kaw was helping people repair parts of the road around their village by clearing trees for road work. He was cutting a tree when it fell on his upper leg. He was admitted to a local clinic for treatment, but after two months, his leg did not feel any better. The clinic sent him for an X-ray, which showed a broken femur. He was referred to Watsi’s medical partner, Burma Children Medical Fund (BCMF), for evaluation and treatment.
At the time of his interview with BCMF, Saw Kaw’s entire leg was swollen. He shared that he had been unable to walk since the injury occurred and was often in a lot of pain, especially at night.
Saw Kaw needs help raising $1,500 to pay for an operation to repair his broken femur. During the operation, an orthopedic surgeon will insert a metal rod through the hollow center of the femur and secure it with screws. The rod will stabilize the broken bone until it is strong enough to support Saw Kaw’s weight. Saw Kaw is scheduled to undergo surgery on February 17.
Funding for Saw Kaw also covers the costs of seven nights in the hospital, lab tests, X-rays, physical therapy, surgical supplies, and crutches.
“I really want to work for my community and the KNU, but I cannot do it right now,” shares Saw Kaw. “I hope to recover fully so I can return to my village to work on the plantation with my family again.”