Ratha is a 48-year-old homemaker. She lives with her husband, who works as a policeman, and they have two daughters, three sons, and four grandchildren. Ratha looks after her grandchildren while her children work and enjoys watching movies on TV when she is not cooking for her family.
Two years ago, Ratha developed a pterygium in her right eye, causing her burning, tearing, irritation, and significant discomfort. Pterygiums are non-cancerous growths of the conjunctiva, a mucous layer that lubricates the eye. They occur when the conjunctiva is exposed to excessive sun damage and the cells grow abnormally over the pupil. As a result, Ratha has difficulty seeing things clearly, recognizing faces, working, and going outside.
When Ratha learned about our medical partner, Children’s Surgical Centre (CSC), she traveled for one hour seeking treatment. On November 22nd, Ratha will undergo a surgical procedure to remove the abnormal conjunctiva from the cornea surface and replace it with a conjunctival graft to prevent a recurrence. CSC is requesting $216 to fund the total cost of her procedure, including medications, supplies, and inpatient care for two days.
Ratha shared, “I hope after surgery my eye feels comfortable, I can help out more, do housework and look after my grandchildren well.”