Boran is a 21-year-old construction worker who lives with his wife and children in Cambodia.
Our medical partner, Children’s Surgical Centre (CSC), tells us, “Boran developed a chalazion on his left eye 3 months ago. This causes him irritation, burning, and his eyelid is swollen.”
A chalazion is an eyelid cyst caused by a blocked oil duct. Initial symptoms include redness and swelling of the involved eyelid, followed by the formation of a firm bump that can become as large as a pea. If the chalazion is large enough, it can cause tearing of the eye or blurred vision. For a large, painful, or recurring chalazion, doctors may recommend surgery to remove the bump, as is the case for Boran.
“It is hard for Boran to see clearly, do work, or go outside,” continues CSC. “He doesn’t like going outside because it causes him burning and he is embarrassed about his appearance.”
For $150, Boran will undergo surgery to remove the chalazion and spend two nights in the hospital as he recovers. “After a chalazion incision and removal surgery,” explains CSC, “Boran will feel less burning, irritation, and his appearance will improve.”