For nearly a year, Ruth in Sauli Yamacho, Kenya, lived without sight. Every day was a struggle — caring for her children, moving safely around her home, and completing basic household tasks all became increasingly difficult. Without access to specialist medical care, a treatable condition left her dependent on others and anxious about the future. Like many people in underserved communities, Ruth’s blindness was not inevitable, but it was out of reach due to financial and logistical barriers.
The loss of vision affected every part of her life. Ruth could no longer work to support her family, and her children often had to step in to help with tasks they were too young to handle. Simple joys, such as preparing meals, attending school, or playing safely outdoors, were overshadowed by fear and uncertainty. Emotional strain weighed heavily on her and her family, leaving them vulnerable and isolated.
With support from Muslim Aid Australia (MAA), a medical outreach programme reached Ruth and other vulnerable individuals in her community. The initiative offered free eye assessments, life-changing surgeries, and integrated humanitarian support to address both immediate health needs and the wider challenges families face during recovery.
Ruth underwent an eye operation that successfully restored her sight. The impact was immediate. For the first time in nearly a year, she could see again — a simple act that transformed her independence, confidence, and ability to care for her children.
“I am very happy that I got operated on,” Ruth shared. “I have been blind for almost a year, and now the surgery is done and successful. I am so happy.”
But the programme’s support extended beyond the operating room. Recognising that recovery requires stability, Ruth and her family also received food assistance to sustain them during her healing period. The provision of food reduced financial pressure, allowing her to focus on recovery without the added stress of how to feed her children. This holistic approach helped restore emotional well-being alongside physical health.
Another beneficiary, Rebecca, shared her gratitude for the medical and humanitarian support: “I have never seen anything like this. Thank you for the food, and may God bless all the doctors who helped me. You have made me very happy.”
The programme demonstrates how combined medical and essential support can transform lives. Ruth regained not only her sight but also dignity, independence, and hope. Her children now benefit from a more secure and confident mother who can provide care and guidance while regaining her position as the household head.
Your zakat delivered through Muslim Aid Australia, in partnership with the New Zealand Zakat Foundation, restores more than sight — it restores hope, stability, and the ability for families to live with dignity. For Ruth and her children, this programme marked the start of a new chapter, filled with opportunity, care, and confidence for the future.