Phy, an 85-year-old grandmother from Cambodia, was recently diagnosed with cataracts. Our medical partner, Children’s Surgical Centre (CSC), tells us, “Phy developed a cataract in each eye three months ago. This causes her blurred vision and tearing. It is hard for her to see clearly, go outside, or do any work.”
Cataracts occur as proteins develop in the lens of the eye, causing cloudiness. The cloudiness increases over time and results in slowly deteriorating vision. If untreated, the condition can ultimately result in total blindness.
For $225, we can fund surgery to treat Phy’s cataracts. During this widely practiced operation, doctors will make a small incision to surgically remove the clouded lenses–replacing each with a new, artificial substitute.
The grandmother of two enjoys visiting the pagoda to listen to the monks pray. With restored vision, Phy will be free to independently pursue her hobbies once again.
"I hope my eyes can see everything clearly again so that I can easily help my child do some housework, take care of my grandchild at home, and [easily] walk anywhere by myself," Phy shares.