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The Fred Hollows Foundation and Noor Dubai Foundation are raising money for people like Asia in Barishal, Bangladesh. 

9 out of 10 people who are blind or vision impaired don’t need to be.

In recent years, life has become tougher for Asia Begum. A series of misfortunes have left her as the breadwinner for an extended family of six living in a tiny space at Amir Kutir in Barishal, Bangladesh.

A few years ago, one of her daughters lost her husband and had to move into her parents’ home with two children aged under 10 years.

Asia’s husband Dulal became ill and is no longer able to work full-time as a bicycle repairer. This has forced Asia to work as a maid to provide for the family.

But Asia has noticed her vision deteriorating. She can’t see objects up close, recognise names that appear on her mobile phone screen and the long journey to work involves climbing stairs and crossing busy roads.

Visiting an eye doctor is not an option because it’s too expensive.

However, Asia received news that The Fred Hollows Foundation and Noor Dubai were providing free eye treatment and eyeglasses through the Ispahani Islamia Eye Institute and Hospital in Barishal.

After being examined by the doctor and diagnosed with uncorrected refractive error, Asia receives eyeglasses and is told to wear them every day.

With her new eyeglasses, Asia is now able to provide for the family, continue her work and read the Holy Quran again.

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