Ko Ko is a 14-year-old boy from Burma. He lives with his grandparents, parents, great-aunt, younger twin brothers, and younger sister. He is in fifth grade. Ko Ko’s father runs a photocopy and printing shop and his mother is a homemaker and looks after his younger sister. Ko Ko’s grandparents and great-aunt are retired and help Ko Ko’s mother with household chores. In his free time, Ko Ko likes to read the Qur’an. Ko Ko said, “I want to become an imam in the future.”
Ko Ko was diagnosed with a heart condition that requires valve replacement. Heart valves control the flow of blood between chambers, but certain conditions may narrow the heart valve or cause the blood to flow backward. Normal valve function is necessary to prevent long-term damage to the heart and lungs. Ko Ko easily tires, especially when he climbs stairs. Sometimes, he feels a tightness in his chest. Due to his condition, Ko Ko often misses school.
Our medical partner, Burma Children Medical Fund, is requesting $1,500 to fund a heart valve replacement for Ko Ko. The treatment is scheduled to take place on October 18th and once completed, will hopefully allow him to live more comfortably.
Ko Ko’s mother said, “I could not afford to pay for transportation to Thailand so Ko Ko could not undergo treatment sooner. I know that the surgery cost is expensive, and I cannot afford to pay for it. I am very happy that Ko Ko will have the chance to undergo treatment. Thank you for supporting and helping us with his treatment.”

