Htet is a 14-year-old boy who lives with his parents in a village in Burma. Htet’s father peels coconuts for a living, while his mother works in a betel leaf garden. Their combined income is just enough for daily expenses.
When Htet was nine months old, his mother noticed that his lips often turned blue when he cried. His symptoms were still there on his first birthday. His parents took him to a clinic in Yangon, where they were informed that Htet has a congenital heart disease.
His father tried to treat him with traditional medicine, but Htet’s symptoms did not improve. When Htet is active, he feels very tired and has heart palpitations. He also eats very little and is often sick. Unfortunately, Htet has had to stop attending classes. He really enjoys school and hopes to become a teacher when he grows up.
Htet and his parents visited our medical partner, Burma Children Medical Fund, where they learned about Watsi and the possibility of having surgery. Htet’s surgery is now scheduled for November 17. Htet’s surgery will cost $1,500, which is too much for Htet’s family to afford.
Htet’s father says, “As a parent, both my wife and I feel very sad and guilty to see our son in this condition. I don’t care how long the treatment will take but if my son recovers, I can give my full time to him. My wife is worried and told me that she will work and that I must look after my son. If there is any way for my son to recover, I would sacrifice my life for him.”