Dear Friends,

I'm writing to ask for your urgent support for my dear friend and former student, Ne Myo Aung, from Myanmar.

You may have heard about the devastating 7.7 earthquake that struck Myanmar in March. The distressing aftermath is that USAID earthquake specialists were dismissed en route to help victims, leaving countless people with critical unmet needs for food, water, shelter, supplies, and medical care.

I've known Ne Myo for over 12 years—many of you will remember him as the brilliant Fulbright scholar ethnomusicologist from UW whose talent I've often raved about. More recently, he's dedicated himself as the Dean of the Gitameit Music Institute in Yangon.

When I reached out to him recently, Ne Myo described the continuing dire conditions in his community after over 450 aftershocks: destroyed infrastructure, widespread power and water shortages, damaged buildings, and persistent fear .

Concerned for this urgent situation, I've launched a GoFundMe campaign with a goal of $2,000. Every dollar will go to the Gitameit Music Institute to provide essential food, water, medical aid, and shelter to those most affected in Ne Myo's community, particularly in Mandalay, the earthquake's epicenter.

Even a small contribution can make a profound impact. Just a few U.S. dollars can provide a basic meal or crucial supplies, and $20–$30 can sustain a family with necessities for an entire week.

Thank you for considering this critical appeal and offering much-needed relief and hope during this difficult time.

Sincerely,

Sally