Mahrim I., 1

One-month-old Mahrim Islam Rafi is a fragile yet precious premature baby whose small presence brings great hope to his loving family. He lives in a modest tin-made house in rural Chandpur with his parents and two school-going brothers, where his father Shukkur Ali, a day laborer earning about 7,000 BDT per month, is the sole provider struggling to support the entire household. After surviving premature birth and early complications, doctors have now diagnosed Rafi with Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP) in both eyes, a serious condition that threatens his vision and requires urgent treatment. The family has already spent their limited savings on his NICU care and cannot afford the specialized eye treatment needed to save his sight. After learning about Helpster Charity through Nasima Akhter and Helpster volunteer Al Amin, his parents are seeking urgent support, as without timely treatment Rafi could lose his vision permanently, affecting his ability to learn, grow, and live an independent life.

Mahrim Islam Rafi, a 1-month-old baby boy, was diagnosed with Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP) in both eyes, a condition that can seriously affect vision if not treated promptly. To manage the abnormal growth of retinal blood vessels, Anti-VEGF injections were administered on 29.01.2026 by Dr. Md. Saiful Islam, the hospital’s ROP Specialist. The treatment was carried out with great care, and Mahrim was closely monitored during follow-up visits. He responded well to the injections, showing steady improvement in his retinal condition. The abnormal blood vessel growth is now under control, and his retina is gradually stabilizing. Doctors remain hopeful that he will develop clear vision as he grows. Sincere thanks to Helpster Charity and Helpster Heroes for their generous support in helping safeguard 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, Rafi urgently requires Anti-VEGF injections such as Avastin in both eyes, along with regular follow-up examinations to monitor proper retinal development. The doctors are hopeful that timely treatment can stop the abnormal vessel growth and preserve his vision, allowing him to grow up like other children. However, if treatment is delayed, the retinal damage could become irreversible, leading to lifelong blindness. The total cost for the injection and follow-up care is approximately BDT 18,000, which is beyond the family’s financial ability. With compassionate support from generous donors, Rafi can be given the priceless gift of sight and the opportunity for a bright and independent future.