Pheab is a 58-year-old rice farmer from Cambodia. In her free time, she enjoys listening to the monks pray on the radio.
Two years ago, Pheab developed a pterygium in both eyes, causing her irritation and tearing. 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 Pheab learned about our medical partner, Children’s Surgical Centre, she traveled for four and a half hours seeking treatment. Pheab 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 $201. This covers medications, supplies, and inpatient care for two days. The procedure is scheduled for September 3rd.
“I hope that after my operation, I will be able to see clearly and can return to the rice fields.”