Location: Bangladesh

Organisation: Fred Hollows Foundation

Tale of Two Sisters 

For over seven years, sisters Sumaiya and Habiba lived in darkness, isolated by congenital cataracts. Through The Fred Hollows Foundation and the ANCP, both received free surgery — travel and accommodation covered. After years of dependency, the smiles on their faces have finally returned.

Sisters Sumaiya Hossain (17) and Habiba Hossain (14) have been blind for over 7 years due to congenital cataracts. Through The Fred Hollows Foundation and the ANCP-funded program, they received cataract surgery at Mazharul Haque BNSB Hospital in Chandpur, which included their travel and accommodation expenses. It was a great support to the family. Their father Awlad said, "As a father, it is a kind of celebration to see them happy again." After years of living in isolation and dependency, the girls have a new chance in life, and the smiles on their faces have finally returned.