Sophea is a 57-year-old cleaner from Cambodia. She has two daughters and two grandchildren. She lives with her eldest daughter, who works as a garment worker. In her free time, Sophea enjoys listening to music. About six months ago, Sophea developed a cataract in her right eye, causing her itchiness, tearing, and blurry vision. As a result, she has difficulty seeing clearly, particularly colors and faces. Moreover, Sophea has difficulty traveling independently. Sophea visited our medical partner, Children's Surgical Centre, seeking treatment. On October 22nd, Sophea will undergo phacoemulsification cataract surgery and an intraocular lens implant surgery in her right eye. Her family can contribute $40, but needs help raising $223 more to help fund her procedure and care. Sophea shared, "I hope after surgery my eye can see better easily, and I can go back to work without having to worry about my eye anymore."

Kelemua is a hardworking widow from Ethiopia who, at 80 years old, still supports her five sons by farming the land. However, she is losing her independence because of severe cataracts. Her vision is severely clouded, causing light sensitivity and making it difficult for her to move around safely. Her daily farm work and household chores now pose a risk of injury with her limited eyesight. And she is no longer able to contribute to the family’s income or do the work she loves. Two years ago, Kelemua developed a cataract in both eyes, causing her pain, blurry vision, and tearing. A cataract is a clouding of the lens of the eye, blurring vision. She has difficulty seeing things clearly, recognizing faces, and going anywhere outside. Fortunately, Kelemua is scheduled to undergo cataract surgery on June 10th, when surgeons will remove and replace the blurred lens in both eyes. After recovery, she will be able to see clearly and resume her daily activities. Our medical partner, Saglan Wajee General Hospital, is requesting $300 to fund her procedure. "My greatest hope is to regain my sight so I can move around safely again. I miss working on the farm and helping out at home, and I want to get back to contributing to my family’s life," said Kelemua.

Almaz is a 28-year-old woman from Ethiopia. She is a homemaker and cares for her three children. Her husband is a daily laborer. Three months ago, she noticed a swelling on her leg, just right above her knee. It started to cause her pain and prevented her from doing her daily tasks. Almaz traveled to our medical partner, Saglan Wajee General Hospital, to receive treatment. On July 1st, surgeons will perform an excisional biopsy to remove the mass. Now, Almaz needs help to raise $750 to fund this procedure. Almaz shared, "I hope to finally move without the constant pain and stiffness that have kept me on the sidelines for the past three months. I hope I can stand, walk, and take care of my three children with ease."