NORTH CAROLINA — Michael Phillips, a 38-year-old North Carolina man, launched a GoFundMe campaign titled "Help Michael Get Micropenis Enlargement Procedure" to fund a medical procedure.

Phillips stated online that his penis measures 0.38 inches (0.97 cm) when fully erect and that he needs the procedure to improve his ability to urinate. As of Friday morning, the campaign had raised more than $9,500 toward a goal of $22,000, and a GoFundMe spokesperson confirmed the platform had verified the campaign.

"This has been a source of daily frustration and embarrassment especially when traveling which I like to do, and it has affected my confidence and independence," Phillips wrote on the online fundraising campaign. He stated he must wear adult incontinence diapers daily. Phillips indicated on the GoFundMe page that he had saved money for the cost of the surgery and injections and was seeking assistance with the remaining balance.

He explained that the injections could help increase girth and allow him to use the restroom more normally. Phillips said that the procedure would not cure his micropenis, but it could enable him to live with more dignity and independence. He confirmed via text message on Friday that he had created the fundraising drive.

The Cleveland Clinic defines micropenis as a stretched penile length of less than 2.67 inches (6.8 cm). Phillips told TMZ in late February that he challenged anyone to prove they had a smaller penis than his, stating the purpose of this challenge was to advocate against body shaming for those with micropenis. He also said he wanted to raise awareness about the difficulties of having a sexual organ that is the size of a pinky fingernail when fully aroused.

Phillips stated that his condition has made penetrative sex impossible in his intimate life. He added that these issues have eliminated his willingness to approach new people, particularly females, in dating situations.