Kean is a 72-year-old fish seller from Cambodia. She has two sons and two grandchildren. Her husband died five years ago, and her sons have moved to Phnom Penh to pursue work, so she currently lives alone. She has had to stop working due to the deterioration of her eyesight, so she spends her free time visiting the local pagoda, bringing food to the monks, and listening to the radio.
Five years ago, Kean developed a cataract in her right eye, causing her blurry vision, tearing and photophobia. Her symptoms have worsened in the last five months. She has difficulty seeing things clearly, recognizing faces, and going anywhere outside.
When Kean learned about our medical partner, Children’s Surgical Centre, she traveled for two-and-a-half hours seeking treatment. On July 10th, doctors will perform a phacoemulsification cataract surgery and an intraocular lens implant in her right eye. After recovery, she will be able to see clearly. Now, she needs help to fund this $229 procedure.
Kean’s son said, “I was worried about my mom losing her vision when she is at home, so I hope this surgery can make her independent and fearless again, so she can live well on her own.”