Ashia Begum, an insolvent woman of Amratali of Barura upazila in Cumilla, was engaged in agricultural works for livelihood. She is 44. 

Two years ago, she experienced some eye problem. She could not see anything clearly. She was diagnosed with cataract but could not afford an operation. Her husband Yakub Ali contacted all hospitals in Cumilla but backtracked due to high cost.

As a free eye camp was held at Amratali Cherag Ali High School in the upazila last month, she went there. Doctors examined her eyes and said she needed cataract surgery. This time poverty was not barrier as she received cost-free operation from Bashundhara Eye Hospital and Research Institute. Like her, many other insolvent and helpless people underwent operation.

Heaving sigh of relief, her husband said Ashia would be blind without the help of Bashundhara Eye Hospital and Research Institute, an ophthalmic venture of country's largest business conglomerate Bashundhara Group.

Eye camps are held in various parts of the country throughout the year. Normal eye problems are treated instantly and medicines and glasses are given free of charge. Critical patients are selected for operation. They are taken to the eye hospital and research institute at Bashundhara Residential Area in the capital and operated in phases. 

All costs of transport, tests, medicines and hospital stay are borne by the largest industrial body.

BDST: 1146 HRS, SEP 19, 2023
MN/SMS