Leng is a 72-year-old farmer from Cambodia. She has one daughter, six sons, and many grandchildren. Leng’s husband passed away ten years ago, so she now lives with her daughter. In her free time, she enjoys listening to the monks pray on the radio.
Three years ago, Leng developed a pterygium in her left eye, causing her irritation, itchiness, and sometimes 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 Leng learned about our medical partner, Children’s Surgical Centre, she traveled there with her son seeking treatment. Leng 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, which covers medications, supplies, and inpatient care for two days. The procedure is scheduled for November 17th, and Leng appeals for financial support.
Leng shared, “I wish to see without discomfort. This would improve my quality of life.”
