Rous is a 68-year-old grocer from Cambodia. She is the oldest of four siblings and spends most of her time with her family. She lives with one of her sisters, and sells groceries from their home. In addition to helping to take care of the house, she also likes to listen to the prayers by the monks of the radio.
Five years ago, Rous developed a pterygium in left, causing her severe irritation and tearing, causing blurry vision. 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. She has difficulty seeing things clearly, recognizing faces, working, and going anywhere outside.
When Rous learned about our medical partner, Children’s Surgical Centre, she traveled there seeking treatment. Rous 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 her procedure is $216. This covers medications, supplies, and inpatient care for two days. The procedure is scheduled for October 19.
Rous said, “After my eye problem gets better, I will get back to doing my part in the house work, and selling my food to help support my family.”