Phai is a potato farmer from Cambodia. He is married. He has two sons, two daughters, and three grandkids. He likes to watch boxing matches and spend time with his grandchildren.
Two years ago, Phai developed a pterygium in his right eye, causing him blurred vision, irritation, pain, and tearing and itching. Pterygiums are non-cancerous growths of the conjunctiva, a mucous layer that lubricates the eye. The growths occur when the conjunctiva is exposed to excessive sun damage and the cells grow abnormally over the pupil. He has difficulty seeing things clearly, recognizing faces, working, and going anywhere outside.
When Phai learned about our medical partner, Children's Surgical Centre, he traveled for four hours seeking treatment. Phai needs a surgical procedure to remove the abnormal conjunctiva from the cornea surface and replace it with a conjunctival graft to prevent recurrence. The total cost of his procedure is $201. This covers medications, supplies, and inpatient care for two days. The procedure is scheduled for June 4.
He says, "I hope I am looking good and have no pterygium on my eye anymore. I want to continue my work and lead an independent life."