Biru Gurung, a 39-year-old male residing in Walling-12, Syangja, had been living with cataract blindness in his right eye for more than six years. His eyes showed signs of impairment during his time as a laborer in a Gulf country. Assuming the complication he faced can be solved by simply wearing glasses – he continued with his life without much of a worry. However, when a friend informed him that the cost of the glasses would amount to almost his entire monthly income, he prolonged his decision until his return to his home county, Nepal
Unfortunately, his financial situation had other plans for him. With family responsibilities, loans to repay, and obligations to keep, he kept working despite his poor vision. Over time, he completely lost sight in his right eye, making it extremely difficult to continue his work. Eventually, the blindness cost him his job, as his work performance was severely affected. The hope of releasing his family from financial hardship was shattered – he returned home with blindness and broken dreams.
Not wanting to trouble his family, Biru hid his condition from them. Although he longed for a cure, he had no idea where to go or how much the treatment would cost. For years, he struggled in silence – until he heard from a friend about a free eye camp being organized by Himalaya Eye Hospital, a partner hospital of Ruit Foundation, at Bhakunde, Syangja.
On 20th August, the day of screening, Biru visited the camp to inquire about his condition and possible treatment. The doctors informed him that he has been suffering from cataract and needed immediate surgery. Feared by the word “surgery,” he rushed out of the camp in confusion. Later that evening, for the first time he shared his disability with his family. After hearing about the constant suffering directly from him, his family encouraged him to seek treatment and accompanied him back to the camp.
On 21st August, Biru underwent a 10-minute miraculous transformation through cataract surgery. Anxiously awaiting the next day to come so the eye patch can be removed, he spends a restless night.
The following morning, the patch on his right eye was removed – and for the first time in six years, he indulged in the vibrant color of this world once more. He embraced the positive change with joy and gratitude – thanking the medical team and partners who provided him a one-in-a-lifetime opportunity to regain his lost sight. That day, Biru not only regained his sight but also his hope for a better future.
