Fatema A., 1

Fatema’s family lives in a tiny tin house with no steady income, making it impossible to afford the treatment neede. Her father, Md Masud Alam, struggles daily as a CNG auto-rickshaw puller, earning just 7,000 Taka a month, which barely covers their basic needs. Her grandmother, Masuma Khatun, is too old and unwell to work, and her mother, Juma Akter, stays home caring for her children, leaving no extra money for medical expenses. Without urgent treatment, Fatema’s retinopathy could worsen, leading to permanent blindness that would shatter her dreams of a bright future. If they cannot get help, her fragile eyes may be lost forever, condemning her to a life of darkness and hardship.

Fatema Akter, a 1-month-old infant, was diagnosed with Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP) in both eyes — a vision-threatening condition that required urgent medical attention. Under the expert supervision of Dr. Md Saiful Islam, ROP Specialist of the Hospital, she was treated with Anti-VEGF injections to control abnormal blood vessel growth. The treatment progressed smoothly, and her retinal condition has shown significant improvement. With the growth of blood vessels now stable, doctors are hopeful that Fatema will be able to see clearly as she grows. Heartfelt thanks to Helpster Charity and the Helpster Heroes for their kind support in restoring her vision.

According to Dr. Md. Anwar Hossain Sheikh, Chief Consultant, and Dr. Md. Saiful Islam, ROP Specialist at Mazharul Haque BNSB Eye Hospital, Chandpur, Fatema’s prognosis is hopeful—if she receives treatment immediately. The Anti-VEGF injections will help stop the growth of abnormal blood vessels in her retina, allowing normal visual development. With regular follow-up care, she can grow up with the gift of sight, just like other children. However, the doctors warn that if Fatema does not receive this critical treatment soon, her condition could worsen rapidly and lead to permanent blindness, a heartbreaking outcome for a child who has already faced so much in her short life.