Gladstone’s Generosity Helps Restore Sight Around the World

Six-year-old Chansouk from Oudomxay in Lao PDR collects muddy water from a nearby river. She pours it into plastic cups, pretending it’s a chocolate drink. She has an active imagination so every day is an adventure. But four years ago, Chansouk had an accident that left a huge impact. Her father Vong was setting rubbish on fire – a common practice to dispose waste in their area. It was a routine task, but the waste included explosive material. Chansouk, who was still learning to walk at that time, was just two metres away from the explosion. They rushed her to the hospital but two days later, Chansouk couldn’t open her eyes. The family visited Oudomxay Eye Hospital and met Dr Senglar Laosern, a doctor trained by The Fred Hollows Foundation with the support of the Australian NGO Cooperation Program (ANCP). Dr Senglar told the family Chansouk had a cataract which can be caused by traumatic accidents that injure the eye. Surgery was organised. Three years later, The Foundation and Dr Senglar visited Chansouk who is now in third grade at primary school. At home she spends a lot of time outdoors running, jumping and playing on water slides with her friends. Chansouk also helps her mum around the house with gardening and cooking, especially sticky rice which is an important part of Laos cuisine and culture. “I’m happy to see that Chansouk has a better eye condition now and that she can help the family,” Dr Senglar said. She loves school and her favourite subject is maths. After she finishes school, Chansouk dreams of being a doctor, just like Dr Senglar.