Khodeja lives in the small village of Godashimulia, in the Jamalpur district of Bangladesh. She lives with her husband and enjoys her role as a housewife, doing most of the household chores like sewing, cleaning, and taking care of the cows and chickens. But for the last five years, this has become difficult for Khodeja.
Her vision first became blurry in her left eye, then shortly afterwards, her right. Her once vibrant life became a daily struggle. Simple household tasks now felt insurmountable, and venturing beyond her home to visit neighbours or buy groceries was impossible. Khodeja found herself dependent on her family, unable to even visit her own daughters. The loss of independence weighed heavily on her. She did not seek treatment due to financial constraints, and her concerns mounted.
“I am just worried of losing my sight and being unable to see my grandchildren again,” said Khodeja. “It would be a devastating state for me if I lose my sight. I don’t want to be a burden to my family.”
One day, a knock on her door informed Khodeja of a free eye screening camp to be conducted at the Madarganj Vision Centre, established in partnership with Operation Eyesight. Khodeja became hopeful and decided to take a chance.
At the screening camp, Khodeja was diagnosed with mature cataracts and referred for surgery. Initially, she feared the operation would be painful and worried about its success. She also worried about the cost. Her family had almost given up hope, resigned to the idea that Khodeja would spend the rest of her life in darkness.
But the compassionate staff at the Madarganj Vision Centre dispelled her fears, and soon Khodeja was travelling approximately 100 km to the BNSB Eye Hospital in Mymensingh. There, Khodeja received the cataract surgery she needed, free of charge. It was a second chance at sight, a second chance at life.
Today, Khodeja’s eyes sparkle with joy. With one eye completely healed and the other now strengthened with prescription eyeglasses, her clear vision has been restored. She has regained her independence and once again feels capable of contributing to her family’s well-being by resuming her household tasks.
“I thank my community, because during my difficult time, they supported me in many ways, ” Khodeja says.
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