The Gift of Sight

Aash Maya Gurung is a curious 8 year old girl.  She is always asking questions.  But, she cannot see!!

A little more than a year ago, Aash Maya had an eye infection.  The infection was left unattended because health care facilities are lacking in her village.  The infection worsened, and she subsequently lost her right eye.  For reasons unknown, her left eye also lost its vision.  Today, Aash Maya is completely blind. 

Aash Maya is from Singla – a remote village in Gorkha District, Western Nepal.  Aash Maya's father passed away when she was 2 years old, and her family now consists of her mother – Dhan Maya (41 years old), and two brothers – Bhim Bahadur (19 years) and Maila (15 years).  Aash Maya's family is one of the poorest in Singla village: they own neither a house, nor land.

Aash Maya needs help – she wants to go to school like other children, but first she must learn Braille.  Since 4 February 2009, she is enrolled in the 'Research' class at Namuna Machhindra School in Lagankhel where she will learn both Nepali and English in Braille.  Once she is ready, she will join classes with other children.

Please help Aash Maya's rehabilitation: at Namuna Machhindra School she will not only get formal education, but she will also gain confidence to achieve daily activities like walking on her own.  We have started the Aash Maya Rehabilitation Fund to pay for her immediate tuition and boarding.  In 2009, we plan to raise NRs 68,000 to ensure that Aash Maya can stay and learn at her school:

Expenses to bring Aash Maya to Kathmandu and return transfer for family	Rs   6,000
Doctor check-up and fees	Rs   1,000
School expenses (tuition, boarding, school equipment, stationary)	Rs 51,000
Holiday expenses (includes transfers, boarding, fooding)	Rs 10,000
TOTAL REQUIRED in 2009	Rs 68,000

We estimate that Aash Maya will be in school for the next 12 years (US$ 12,000).  Any long-term commitment for her education will be greatly appreciated.

Our 'sight' is a precious gift; please help so that Aash Maya can 'see' in her own way.

For support and/or further information:

Aash Maya Rehabilitation Fund

Jenny Gurung, Kathmandu, Nepal

jenny@crystalmountaintreks.com

mobile: 98510-31831

 

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