42-year-old Naing is a veteran of the Burmese army who lost his right leg in combat 15 years ago. He is married with five daughters, one of whom works in the city, and two of whom are still in school.
“Naing began to experience painful urination, back pain, and a tender abdomen eight months ago. He did not try to access healthcare in Burma because he knew that it would be too expensive for his family,” explains our medical partner, Burma Border Projects (BBP).
Naing has been diagnosed with bladder stones which require surgery to remove.
BBP explains, “Currently, he has back pain and painful urination. He can still work as a day labourer sometimes but it is hard for him to work when he is in more pain. He said now he has blood in his urine and he has stopped working. His family and friends are worried about his condition.”
Naing was discharged from the army with no disability pay or retirement benefits and does not have enough savings to cover his surgery. For $1,500, we can pay for surgery to remove the stones, including transportation to the hospital and all expenses while he recovers from the procedure.
Niang shares, “I want to have surgery and recover soon. I would like to work as a barber … since it would pay better than my present work.”
