Phalla is a 73-year-old widow from Kandal province, Cambodia. Her husband died six years ago due to COVID-19. She has one son, two daughters, and four grandchildren. She lives with her youngest daughter, who works at a water company. Phalla likes to watch the news on TV and listen to monks pray on the radio.
Five years ago, Phalla developed a cataract in her left eye, causing her itchiness, tearing, and blurry vision. A cataract is a clouding of the lens of the eye, so it is like looking through a frosty or fogged-up window. She has difficulty seeing things clearly, including colors and faces, and is worried about falling when walking, so she is not able to go places on her own.
When Phalla learned about our medical partner, Children’s Surgical Centre, she traveled for two hours seeking treatment. On September 1st, doctors will perform a phacoemulsification cataract surgery and an intraocular lens implant in her left eye. After recovery, she will be able to see clearly. Her family can contribute $50, but needs help raising $213 more to fund her procedure and care.
Phalla said, “I hope after surgery my eye can see better easily. I can go to join ceremonies at the pagoda, and go to far places. I will be able to recognize my relatives well, and I don’t have to worry about my eye anymore.”
