Arifa I., 1

Arifa Islam, a one-month-old premature twin, fills her small home in Shariatpur with gentle smiles and quiet hope. Her father, Amzad Sarker, earns only about BDT 8,000 a month working as a farmer and day laborer, while her mother Halima cares for Arifa, her twin sibling, their young son Abdur Rahman, and her elderly grandfather who is too old to work. The family already spent their small savings on Arifa’s early hospital care, leaving them unable to pay for the treatment she now needs for her eyes. If she does not receive treatment soon, Arifa may lose her sight and never be able to see her parents, siblings, or the world around her. A counselor at the pediatric unit of Mazharul Haque BNSB Eye Hospital told the family about Helpster Charity, and they are now hoping for support to save their baby girl’s vision.

Arifa Islam, a 1-month-old baby girl, was admitted for urgent management of Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP) in both eyes, a condition that can lead to permanent vision loss if left untreated. After thorough evaluation, he received Anti-VEGF injection on 20.11.2025, administered by Dr. Md. Saiful Islam, the hospital’s ROP Specialist. The treatment process was carefully planned and executed, with close monitoring to ensure safety and effectiveness. During his stay, his response to the treatment was positive, showing encouraging signs of recovery. The abnormal growth of retinal blood vessels has now been successfully controlled. His retinal condition has improved significantly, and doctors are hopeful that he will develop clear vision in the future. He was discharged in stable condition with advice for regular follow-up, and heartfelt thanks go to Helpster Charity and Helpster Heroes for making this life-changing treatment possible.

According to Dr. Md. Anwar Hossain Sheikh, Chief Consultant, and Dr. Md. Saiful Islam, ROP Specialist at Mazharul Haque BNSB Eye Hospital, Chandpur, Arifa urgently needs Anti-VEGF injections (such as Avastin) in both eyes, along with routine follow-up care to allow proper retinal development and preserve her vision. Doctors confirm that timely treatment can save her eyesight and allow her to grow normally like other children. However, delaying treatment could result in irreversible blindness. The total cost of treatment and follow-up is approximately BDT 18,000, which is beyond the family’s financial capacity. With compassionate support from donors, Arifa can be saved from lifelong darkness and given the chance to live a bright and hopeful future.