Uttama is a 24-year-old Burmese Buddhist monk who aspires to eventually teach Buddhism and meditation.
Uttama has a tightening in his Achilles tendon, which he has had since birth. This condition makes walking in the morning without shoes difficult, and affects his capabilities at the monastery.
After traveling to our medical partner, Burma Children Medical Fund, for treatment, Uttama is scheduled to undergo Achilles tendon lengthening surgery on May 16. This will allow Uttama to walk comfortably again.
Uttama is requesting $1,500 to cover the total cost of the procedure.
“When I buy new shoes, it is easier to walk. But after three months they are always looser on my foot and it becomes even harder to walk. This happens all the time,” he says.