Pov is a construction worker from Cambodia. She has one daughter. She enjoys watching the news, movies, and connecting with friends on social media.
Three years ago, Pov developed a pterygium in both eyes, causing her irritation, itching, blurred vision, and tearing. 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 Pov learned about our medical partner, Children’s Surgical Centre, she traveled for one and a half hours seeking treatment. Pov needs 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 $201. This covers medications, supplies, and inpatient care for two days. The procedure is scheduled for April 9.
She says, “I hope I am looking good and no longer have the pterygiums on my eyes after surgery. I want to continue my work and be able to go outside by myself.”