BAJURA, DECEMBER 23

Biru Bista of Bajura's Khaptadchhededaha Rural Municipality was just 14 when he lost vision in both his eyes.

Owing to the poor financial status of his family, he couldn't be treated for his condition back then. He hasn't been able to afford treatment all these years. He is now 30.

Biru was in the sixth grade when his eyes lost vision partially due to some 'mysterious' disease. He couldn't seek treatment immediately due to lack of fund. Later, after some fund was raised in donation, Biru was taken to Geta Eye Hospital of Dhangadi for treatment. 'Up to that time he could see to some extent, but once the hospital gave himglasses, both of his eyes were shut completely and he couldn't see anything,' said Biru's father Gambhir Bista, adding it was impossible for the family to take their son to a better hospital without money.

Four years ago, where an eye camp was organised at Tante Health Post of Budhiganga Municipality, Biru's kin had taken him there. 'Doctors at the eye camp had asked us to take him to a better place, either Kathmandu or Bhairawana, but as we didn't have money there was no way we could take him anywhere,' said the father. 'I've asked for help but as it's hard to come by, I fear my son will be never able to see again as he can't get the treatment which could make him well again.'

Meanwhile, as the man can't see, it's difficult for him even at home, as he needs others' help even to move inside his house.

According to Biru, problems with his eyes had started when he was taking classes at his school one day.

But he could still see things. 'One month later, I had a fever and after that I had my right eye completely shut. I could still see with left eye but that too was shut later,' he recounted.

'I hope to be able to see again if I get the chance to be treated in a good hospital, but we don't have money, and alas, I don't know whether I will ever be able to see again,' bemoaned Biru, with his voice cracking, asking for help.

'If we got some help, maybe I could be treated and see again,' he said.

A version of this article appears in the print on December 24, 2022, of The Himalayan Times.