Chou is a 55-year-old dessert seller from Cambodia. She is married and has one daughter, two sons, and two grandchildren. She currently lives with her husband and enjoys watching movies during her free time.
Seven years ago, Chou developed a pterygium in her right eye, causing her to experience irritation and burning. 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 Chou learned about our medical partner, Children’s Surgical Centre, she traveled for one hour seeking treatment. Chou 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 $225. This covers treatment, supplies, and inpatient care for two days. The procedure is scheduled for July 12th.
Chou says, “I hope my eye feels comfortable again and the irritation stops so I can return to selling desserts without worry.”
