Vang is a 71-year-old widow from Phnom Penh, Cambodia. She has two sons, three daughters, and ten grandchildren. She lives alone in a small apartment near her oldest daughter who is a sugar cane seller. For many years, Vang sold fruit at the local market but had to stop due to poor vision. Now she enjoys taking care of her grandchildren. At home, she likes to listen to the monks pray on the radio.
Several years ago, Vang developed a cataract in her right eye, causing her blurry vision and difficulty seeing in bright or low light. She is unable to navigate steps in traditional Khmer houses and feels she has lost much of her independence. A cataract is a clouding of the lens of the eye, so it is like looking through a frosty or fogged-up window. She has difficulty seeing things clearly, including colors and faces, and is worried about falling when walking, so is not able to go places on her own.
Vang learned about our medical partner, Children’s Surgical Centre, and sought treatment. On February 4th, 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. Vang’s family can contribute $50 but needs help to raise $203 more to fund this procedure. Now, she needs help to fund this $253 procedure.
Vang said: “I hope after surgery my eye can see better easily go out and recognize and I can walk outside, take care of my grandchildren and myself.”

