Change the life of a child with cataracts

Khadijah was suffering from a cataract in her right eye when she was just six years old.

The cataract, which was thought to have developed after a case of measles, caused cloudy patches in Khadijah’s vision. She struggled to see in low light and had to close her eyes in bright sunshine. Khadijah could only make out her family when they were close by as she couldn’t see clearly in the distance.

Cataracts were stopping Khadijah from reaching her potential. She couldn’t see what her teacher was writing on the board, and got into trouble for not doing her work because she couldn’t read or write. The other children teased Khadijah because she couldn’t join in with their games.

Without an education, Khadijah could struggle to find work – and without treatment, she could have faced a lifetime of poverty and social isolation.

Fortunately, Khadijah’s mum Shafa was a teacher, and she was trained to screen children for eye conditions as part of a Sightsavers project. Shafa recognised her daughter was suffering from a cataract, and the local health officer confirmed the diagnosis. He referred Khadijah to hospital for an operation which was also paid for through the generosity of Sightsavers supporters.

With help from supporters like you, Khadijah is now a happy six-year-old girl who writes neatly in her exercise books and has fun with her younger brothers. Shafa is excited that her daughter has the chance of a brighter future. But there are so many other children like Khadijah who still need your support.

Please, will you donate today to help us reach more children with cataracts?