Meet Chum! Chum is a 57-year-old rice and crop farmer from Cambodia. Nearly one year ago, Chum developed a cataract in each eye. Cataracts are the result of excess proteins forming on the lens of the eye, which make the lens cloudy and difficult to see. According to our medical partner, Children’s Surgical Centre (CSC), the cataracts are significantly interfering with his daily life. “Chum has blurred vision, tearing, irritation, and has even become afraid of sunshine.” Since he can’t see everything clearly, it has affected his ability to do work or even go anywhere outside.
Hoping to get treatment for his cataracts, Chum has traveled 3 hours to the local care center with his wife. Doctors from CSC have recommended that Chum undergo a short operation. An incision will be made in each eye to replace the clouded lens with new artificial implants. $225 will cover the cost of the surgery, medicine, and hospital fees.
Chum is married with 4 sons, 5 daughters, and 20 grandchildren. He enjoys watching boxing on TV in his free time and is excited to be able to see again to “continue work on the farm, plant rice, and go anywhere he wants,” shares CSC.
His family are also looking forward to having him regain his eyesight. “I hope I can stop worrying about my husband’s vision loss,” shares his wife. Let’s help Chum get the care he needs.