Han is a 67-year-old rice farmer. She is married and has one daughter, two sons, and four grandchildren. She lives with her husband and her youngest son, who is a laborer. She likes to cook at home, make toys for her grandchildren, and listen to monks praying on the radio.
Six years ago, Han developed a pterygium in her right eye causing her sensitivity to light, irritation, and tearing. In the past year, her symptoms have worsened, causing her to become less independent. 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 Han learned about our medical partner, Children’s Surgical Centre, she traveled for three hours seeking treatment. On August 23rd, Han will undergo 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. This covers medications, supplies, and inpatient care for two days.
Han shared, “I hope after surgery I can see well and start to work and help my family again. I want to join in the ceremonies at our pagoda too.”