Ar is a 13-year-old Burmese student in Thailand. He has been living in a dormitory for a year now as his mother moved to Bangkok in search of a better job. Ar’s mother borrowed money to pay for the tuition for the school and the dormitory so Ar can continue to attend the fifth grade. He gets food from the school and occasionally gets some pocket money from his cousins.
In 2021, when Ar was still living with his family in Karen State, Burma, his leg started to swell. Because it was not causing him any pain his father did not take him to see a doctor. Since then, his leg stayed swollen and would swell up a bit more. However, in March 2024, it started to cause him pain. Ar can no longer play football with his friends because his leg hurts. It is also difficult for him to walk. Ar asked his mother to send some money so he could go to a clinic to see a doctor.
Doctors want Ar to undergo an MRI, an imaging procedure that uses magnetic fields and radio waves to produce images of bodily organs. This scan will hopefully help doctors diagnose his condition and formulate an appropriate treatment plan.
Our medical partner, Burma Children Medical Fund, is requesting $814 to cover the cost of Ar’s MRI and care, scheduled for June 10th.
Ar said: “I just want to walk again and play with my friends. I do not want to be a burden to my mother by asking for more money.”