The Return of Hope for Ibu Suhairi After Being Free From Cataracts

Stories | June 30, 2021

The Return of Hope for Ibu Suhairi After Being Free From Cataracts

Ibu Suhairi’s face radiated with joy because she was able to work again to earn a living to support her life. However, life for Ibu Suhairi was not always so joyful. Nine years ago, Ibu Suhairi started to notice her vision was declining. Unable to work independently in the rice fields, and with the passing of her husband two years ago and no children to support her, Ibu Suhairi was struggling to get by and life was difficult. Although Ibu Suhairi was informed by an eye specialist at a hospital that the reason for her low vision was due to cataracts – a condition that it often easily treatable – without money to pay for the surgery, Ibu Suhairi lost hope and accepted life with poor vision. To make ends meet, Ibu Suhairi relied on the help of her neighbours and worked in the rice fields. However, with such poor eyesight, she would often fall over, sometimes injuring herself. Life for Ibu Suhairi changed when she underwent cataract surgery paid for by a CBM supported project. CBM is tackling vision impairment and avoidable blindness in East Java by supporting inclusive eye health initiatives.

Now able to see again, Ibu Suhairi has regained her independence and self-confidence. Once again, she can work safely in the rice fields, earn her own money, and not be dependent of relatives or neighbours.

Ibu Suhairi is extremely grateful for the cataract surgery and says now things she never dreamed of in her life can come true.

 


On Miracles Day, Thursday 19 August, give the Miracle of sight-saving surgery to someone living in poverty. Your $33 donation can change a life forever. Give a Miracle today.

 

CBM Australia acknowledges the support of the Australian Government through the Australian NGO Cooperation Program (ANCP) for this work.

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