Safa I., 1

Baby Safa Islam, a one-month-old premature twin, was born at 34 weeks weighing only 1,800 grams, and has been diagnosed with Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP) in both eyes—a condition that can cause permanent blindness if not treated urgently. Her father, Jahirul Islam, a devoted assistant teacher earning just 10,000 Taka a month, struggles to provide for his wife Sabina Akter and their four young children, including Safa’s twin Safia, who is also suffering from the same illness. The family lives in a small rented tin house in Baburhat, Chandpur, barely managing daily necessities, leaving them unable to afford the life-saving Anti-VEGF eye injections recommended by doctors. Despite her fragile health, Safa is a gentle and responsive baby, showing signs of life and hope even through her struggle. Without immediate treatment, both twins risk losing their eyesight forever, but with timely help, they have a real chance to see their parents, their siblings, and the world for the first time.

Safa Islam, a 1-month-old baby girl, was diagnosed with Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP) in both eyes, a condition that required immediate treatment to prevent potential vision loss. To stop the abnormal growth of retinal blood vessels, Anti-VEGF injections were administered by Dr. Md. Saiful Islam, the hospital’s ROP Specialist. The treatment process was handled with great care, and her condition was closely monitored during follow-up visits. Safa responded well to the injections, and gradual improvement was observed in her retinal health. The abnormal blood vessel growth is now under control, and the retinal condition has improved significantly. Doctors are hopeful that she will develop clear vision as she grows older. Special thanks to Helpster Charity and Helpster Heroes for their generous support in helping protect her eyesight.

According to Dr. Md. Anwar Hossain Sheikh, Chief Consultant, and Dr. Md. Saiful Islam, ROP Specialist at Mazharul Haque BNSB Eye Hospital, Chandpur, Safa and Safia both require immediate Anti-VEGF (Avastin) injections in both eyes to prevent further retinal damage. The treatment is highly effective at this early stage and can completely restore their vision if done promptly. The total cost of the procedure and follow-up care is around BDT 18,000, which is beyond the capacity of their struggling family. The doctors have strongly advised that any delay in treatment could cause irreversible blindness, robbing these beautiful babies of their chance to see their parents, their siblings, and the world around them.