Jakarta, ThedailyID — A man from North Carolina has launched an online fundraiser to help pay for surgery related to a rare medical condition known as a micropenis, saying the procedure could improve his daily life and restore his independence.
Michael Phillips said the operation would help address severe urinary problems and improve his quality of life. He created the campaign on GoFundMe to raise money for the treatment.
According to The Guardian, Phillips said his penis measures 0.38 inches (0.97 centimeters) when fully erect. He described it as the smallest in the world, although that claim has not been independently verified.
Phillips said the condition causes urinary incontinence, forcing him to wear adult diapers every day.
“It has become a source of frustration and embarrassment every day,” Phillips wrote on his GoFundMe page. “It affects my confidence, my independence and even my ability to travel.”
He said he has saved as much money as possible for surgery and medical injections. However, he still needs financial support to cover the remaining cost of treatment.
The 38-year-old said the procedure would not cure his condition completely. Instead, he hopes it will allow him to use the toilet more normally and live with greater dignity.
As of Friday morning, the fundraiser had collected more than US$9,500. However, the campaign remains well below its US$22,000 goal.
Phillips confirmed to The Guardian that he created the fundraising campaign. Meanwhile, a GoFundMe spokesperson said the platform had verified its authenticity.
The fundraiser follows widespread media attention earlier this year. In February, Phillips told TMZ that he challenged anyone to prove they had a smaller penis than his.
He said the challenge was not intended as a publicity stunt. Instead, he hoped it would raise awareness about micropenis and encourage people to reject body shaming.
According to Healthline, doctors define a micropenis as an adult penis measuring less than 3 inches (7.5 centimeters) when fully stretched.
Phillips also said the condition has affected his self-confidence and personal relationships. He admitted it has made him reluctant to approach new people, particularly women.
