A Miracle at 42 days Old: Marla Sees Her Mother for The First Time

At just 19 days old, Marla was taken to an Orbis supported hospital in Ulaanbatar, Mongolia, where Dr. Shamsiya Murat, an Orbis trained doctor, confirmed what Marla’s parents feared, their daughter’s vision was at risk.

Without surgery, Marla would likely lose her sight forever. Time was running out, and her parents knew they had to act quickly. At only 42 days old, Marla had her cataracts removed by Dr. Murat in a life-saving surgery, making Marla the youngest child in Mongolia at the time to receive this treatment. A few weeks after the surgery, Marla’s mother noticed her baby looking up at her - finally seeing her for the first time. It was a moment filled with joy, knowing Marla’s world had just come into focus.

Dr. Murat determined that Marla, who was aged 5, needed another surgery to safeguard her sight. This time, she underwent a procedure to place new lenses in both eyes - a vital step that wasn’t possible previously, as she was below the minimum required age for the surgery.

Marla needs regular check-ups and wears glasses to keep her vision strong. For a long time, she struggled with a heavy pair that made her feel uncomfortable. But now, she can wear a lighter pair with a gentler prescription. As Dr. Murat says, “Marla says her new glasses are much nicer. She finds the thick glasses too heavy and uncomfortable. She’s thrilled with her new ones.”

On a recent visit to Mongolia with the Flying Eye Hospital, Marla’s grandmother reflected on how much eye care in the country has improved since her daughter’s childhood. This progress has given Marla a brighter future.

Marla now aged six, is excited to start school! Curious and creative, she loves drawing and dreams of becoming a designer or seamstress. With clear vision, she’s ready to explore a world full of possibilities.

Marla’s story is just one example of how early treatment can change a child's life. But not every child gets the chance they need in time. Your donation today can help children like Marla receive the sight-saving surgery and care they desperately need before they are at risk of losing their sight for good.

Without your help, children will continue to struggle in the dark, missing out on the world around them. But together, we can change that.

Act Now. Your support today can give a child the gift of sight - a future full of hope and possibility. Help children like Marla see their world clearly, before it’s too late.