Phob is a 53-year-old rice farmer from Cambodia. He has six children, four grandchildren, and enjoys reading scripture in his spare time.
Five years ago, Phob developed a pterygium in both eyes, causing him blurring vision, 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. He has difficulty seeing things clearly, recognizing faces, working, and going anywhere outside.
When Phob learned about our medical partner, Children’s Surgical Centre, he traveled for two and a half hours seeking treatment. Phob 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 his procedure is $201. This covers medications, supplies, and inpatient care for two days. The procedure is scheduled for June 17.
He says, “I hope that after my surgery I will be able to see clearly and can return to my work on the rice farm and provide for my family.”