Sophal is a retired rice farmer from Cambodia. She lives in a small town on the Mekong river that is famous for having a small population of freshwater dolphins. Sophal has five sons, one daughter, and fifteen grandchildren that keep her busy. Her husband has also retired from their rice farm. Their daughter lives with them and farms rice and lotus for a living. Sophal shared that some of her favorite activities include joining ceremonies at her local pagoda, cooking, and looking after her house.
About seven months ago, Sophal developed a cataract in her right eye, causing her blurry vision and sensitivity to light. She has difficulty seeing things clearly, including colors and faces, and is worried about falling when walking, so she cannot go out on her own.
When Sophal learned about our medical partner, Children’s Surgical Centre (CSC), she traveled for eight and a half hours seeking treatment. On January 5th, doctors will perform a small incision cataract surgery and an intraocular lens implant in her right eye. After recovery, she will be able to see clearly again. CSC is requesting $253 to fund this procedure.
Sophal shared: “I hope my vision improves, and I can do housework and get around easily by myself. I want to walk to the pagoda by myself.”