How Boshir helped 100 people get the eye care they need

Boshir once led an active, independent life, until his vision gradually began to fade.

“The problem reached a point where I couldn’t see anything or do any work. I needed someone to guide me wherever I went. I couldn’t even count money. I became a burden on my family,” he recalls.

Despite these challenges, his community discouraged him from seeking treatment, warning that surgery might make things worse. He was even told that blurry vision was a natural part of getting older. But Boshir didn’t give up: he sought advice from others who had received treatment at the Orbis-run Vision Centre and was encouraged by their stories.

At the Vision Centre, Boshir was diagnosed with cataracts in both eyes. He decided to undergo surgery at the hospital, where thankfully both surgeries on his eyes were successful, helping restore his independence.

“Now I can do everything – from household chores to shopping – just like I did before my eyesight faded,” Boshir says, with a new sense of hope.

Boshir’s surgeries were completely free of charge, thanks to the work of Orbis and Cox's Bazar Baitush Sharaf Hospital, who are committed to providing essential eye care to Rohingya refugees. The team not only covered the cost of the surgery, but also arranged for Boshir’s travel, accommodation, food, and even a new pair of glasses.

“If Orbis hadn’t helped me, I would never have been able to afford the surgery. I would still be living in darkness,” he admits.

Boshir’s life has been transformed, and he now gives back to his community. As a volunteer, he works tirelessly to dispel myths about eye care and encourage others to visit the Vision Centre.

“I’ve referred at least 100 people for treatment at the Vision Centre. I not only raise awareness, but I also accompany them to the hospital when needed,” Boshir shares proudly.

Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh, is home to over 1 million Rohingya refugees who fled persecution in Myanmar. Living in overcrowded camps with limited access to essential services like eye care, many are living with untreated sight loss. Orbis has been working in Cox’s Bazar since 2018, providing vision screenings, glasses, and cataract surgery to both Rohingya refugees and the local community. For many, this is the first time they’ve had access to eye care.

This Ramadan, you can help people like Boshir regain their sight. Your donation will fund vital eye care for those who need it most. By supporting Orbis, you’re giving people the chance to see again – and to lead independent, fulfilling lives.

Together, we can make this Ramadan a time of hope, healing, and renewal for those in need.