Safowan S., 1

Little Safowan Sharif, a fragile one-month-old premature baby boy and one of a twin, was born at 33 weeks with a birth weight of only 1.3 kg and has already faced life-threatening challenges in the NICU. He lives with his devoted mother, Saima Sumi, father Sharif Patowary, twin brother Saifan, elder brother Mohammad Sohel, and his elderly grandparents in a small tin-roofed house in Hajiganj, Chandpur, where basic necessities are scarce and an aunt with a mental disorder also depends on the family. Recently, Safowan was diagnosed with Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP) in both eyes, a serious condition that could cause permanent blindness without urgent Anti-VEGF injections and follow-up care. With the father earning only 5,000 Taka per month, the family cannot afford the 18,000 Taka needed for treatment, leaving Safowan at severe risk of losing his vision. Desperate to save their son, the family has turned to Helpster Charity for support, hoping to give Safowan a chance at a healthy and bright future.

Safowan Sharif, a 1-month-old baby boy, was diagnosed with Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP) in both eyes, a condition that required urgent treatment to prevent possible vision loss. To control the abnormal growth of retinal blood vessels, Anti-VEGF injections were administered by Dr. Md. Saiful Islam, the hospital’s ROP Specialist. The treatment was carried out carefully, and his condition was closely monitored through follow-up examinations. Safowan responded well to the injections, showing gradual improvement in his retinal condition. The growth of abnormal blood vessels is now under control, and the retinal condition has improved. With continued monitoring and care, doctors are hopeful that he will develop clear vision as he grows. Special thanks to Helpster Charity and Helpster Heroes for supporting his timely treatment and helping protect his eyesight.

According to Dr. Md. Anwar Hossain Sheikh, Chief Consultant, and Dr. Md. Saiful Islam, ROP Specialist at Mazharul Haque BNSB Eye Hospital, Chandpur, Safowan’s condition is serious but treatable. The doctors strongly recommend immediate Anti-VEGF (Avastin) injections in both eyes, followed by routine monitoring to ensure the retina develops normally. If treated promptly, Safowan has a very high chance of recovering his eyesight fully and growing up with normal vision. However, if the treatment is delayed or not done, the baby will lose his vision permanently, leading to lifelong disability and dependency. Early treatment will give Safowan the precious gift of sight and a chance to live a bright, independent, and fulfilling life.