Makara is a beautiful Cambodian woman living with her family near the Vietnamese border. Her parents are both farmers and she spends her time working in a nearby garment factory.
Makara was born with a rare condition called Meningoencephalocele (MEC), wherein there is a defect in the skull caused by swelling of the brain tissue and membrane. This is caused by a failure of the neural tube (nervous system) to close properly during fetal development. Makara’s condition puts her at continual risk of meningitis and/or brain hemorrhage, in addition to potential disfigurement.
Doctors say Makara’s only option is surgery. Initially, Makara was scared to have her long hair shaved, but she now laughs about it and faces surgery bravely. Children’s Surgical Centre is seeking $350 for treatment and procedure costs which will provide Makara with the care she needs.