Um Wasim, a 54-year-old Yemeni woman, suffers from internal bleeding in the retinas of both eyes due to diabetes and high blood pressure, causing severe vision impairment. She urgently needs surgery costing 42,000 AED to remove cataracts from her eyes, but the amount exceeds her family’s limited means. She appeals to kind-hearted people for help before it’s too late.

A medical report issued by Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City Hospital in Abu Dhabi confirmed that the patient’s condition requires urgent surgical intervention to prevent permanent blindness. It noted her continuous eye redness, itching, dryness, and inability to see clearly.

Um Wasim recounts her struggle with the illness: “A year ago, I suffered a severe health setback due to high blood sugar levels. I went to Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City Hospital, where I continue to receive treatment.”

She added, “The doctor asked me to wait two days for necessary tests and to control my blood sugar level, then requested that I follow the same procedures every two months instead of six months, with regular eye exams.”

She continued, “Recently, my condition worsened, and during an examination, internal bleeding was found in the retinas of both eyes, leading to the appearance of cataracts. Doctors confirmed the urgent need for surgery to remove them.”

She further explained, “I learned from the hospital that the surgery costs 42,000 AED, which is beyond my financial capability, and I am unable to provide even a small part of it, especially since the surgery must be done as soon as possible.”

She pointed out that she has no provider, previously worked in a retail store but was dismissed due to illness, and currently lives with a relative who cares for her and provides some financial assistance.

She appeals to kind-hearted people to help cover the surgery costs and save her from permanent blindness.

Cataracts

Cataracts are an opacity that affects the natural lens of the eye, leading to decreased visual acuity and blurred vision depending on the severity of the opacity. If it worsens, it can result in complete inability to distinguish objects. However, most cases regain full vision after surgical removal of cataracts and implantation of a clear lens, especially if there is no other eye disease obstructing vision.