Rom is a 68-year-old rice farmer. She has one son and three grandchildren. She shared that her son is also a farmer, and she and her husband separated twenty years ago. Now that Rom is older, she no longer goes to the field. Instead, she enjoys staying at home and taking care of her grandchildren. In her free time, she likes to listen to the monks preaching on the radio.
Five years ago, Rom developed a cataract in her left eye, causing her photophobia, blurry vision, itchiness and sometimes tearing. She has difficulty seeing things clearly, recognizing faces, and going anywhere outside.
When Rom learned about our medical partner, Children’s Surgical Centre, she traveled for three and a half hours with her niece seeking treatment. On January 13th, doctors will perform a small incision cataract surgery and place an intraocular lens implant in her left eye. After recovery, she will be able to see clearly. Now, she needs help to fund this $229 procedure.
Rom shared, “I hope after surgery I can see well, I can go outside by myself, and care for my grandchildren. I hope to plant vegetables around our house to sell, which will earn money to support my family.”