Dual-genital baby needs financial aid

PALU, Central Sulawesi: The parents of a baby born with male and female genitals are awaiting financial and medical assistance while considering which of the sex organs would suit the baby most, Antara reported.

Surgery would cost the destitute parents about Rp 20 million (US$8,587).

The Lions Club has donated Rp 640,000 to Rikman (40) and Hatiria (30), parents of three-and-half-month old Zabir, according to the chairman of the organization's branch in Palu, Rizal Tjahjadi.

Zabir's parents live in a 3 by 3 meter house on stilts, with no electricity, in the middle of a rice field.

The baby was born with two functioning urethras, a penis and a vagina. Up to now Zabir has only been urinating through the penis.

The Lions Club is trying to conduct a hormonal test in Surabaya to determine which sex is most suitable for Zabir.

The Lions Club will be raising funds in Ujungpandang, South Sulawesi, and Surabaya, East Java. Both cities are considered to have the facilities for the necessary operation. (14)