More than 150 underprivileged women aged over 50 received free eye treatment and medical support at a special eye care camp held in Jessore on Friday, bringing relief and hope to many who had long been unable to afford treatment.
Among the beneficiaries was 55-year-old Jasmin Begum, a resident of the Tetultala area of Jessore town. She has been suffering from blurred vision and excessive tearing in both eyes for the past four months. With no husband or children to support her, she attended the camp after learning about the free services.
“Both of my eyes have been painful for months. Eye drops were not helping. After examining me, the doctor prescribed medicine, which I received free of cost. He also told me that an American lens will be implanted in one of my eyes in the coming days,” she said.
The free eye treatment and cataract surgery camp was organized by the US-based aid organization ECO at the Joyeeta Society auditorium in Jessore town. BNP Vice Chairman Nargis Begum inaugurated the event.
According to organizers, around 150 elderly women received eye examinations and treatment, while arrangements were made for cataract surgeries for 35 patients. Renowned eye specialist Dr. Mahmudur Rahman, a former physician of the Bangladesh Eye Research Institute, led the medical team.
Seventy-year-old Taslima Begum from the Nazir Shankarpur area expressed gratitude after receiving treatment. Widowed three years ago, she said financial hardship had prevented her from seeking medical care. “Today I received free treatment and medicine. The doctor assured me that my condition will improve,” she said.
Speaking at the inauguration, Nargis Begum said humanitarian service and public welfare remain central to political efforts. She noted that more than 1,000 medical camps have been organized in Jessore to support disadvantaged communities.
ECO Project Officer Abdul Kader said the organization works to improve the socio-economic conditions of marginalized people through healthcare, education, training, scholarships, and support for orphaned and impoverished children across the country.