Ani’s Story

Corneal Transplant Gives Ani Gift of Sight

When Ani was three, she was playing with a bottle of bleach — thinking it was a sweet drink. When the foul taste hit her lips, she dropped the bottle. The harsh chemical splashed over her eyes, instantly turning them white. She was blind.

Throughout childhood Ani’s parents searched for help, taking her to hospitals and even traveling to Russia, but with no results. In Armenia, where the disabled receive little or no assistance, Ani was a second-class citizen unable to attend school or play outside with other children.

“I just sat at home dreaming of having sight one day,” Ani said.

Along their journey, Ani’s family learned of the Armenian EyeCare Project. At 14, she had corneal transplants in both eyes — a delicate surgery performed by the talented Dr. Anna Hovakimyan.

Opening her eye after surgery, Ani was able to see her parent’s faces for the first time since she was three. Now an independent young woman, Ani travels by herself, cooks for her family and loves to sew!

Her parents are beyond thankful for Ani’s restored vision.

“My child’s sight is a miracle,” said her mother. “Without the Project my child would be blind.”

Ani’s father added: “A world of thanks to the EyeCare Project.”

As for Ani, she’s full of enthusiasm about her future and the days ahead. “I had no hope. Now, I have hope. It’s a miracle.”