Alice had been blind for three years.
Cataracts slowly took her sight, but she continued selling fresh fish at the main market in Afagnan. She worked by touch and memory, feeling for quality and counting money carefully in her hands. She listened closely to voices to recognize her customers.
It was tiring, but that is how she survived.
A young woman who lived with her became her guide. She walked her to the market each day, helped her eat, bathe, and move around safely. When that young woman became ill and passed away, Alice found herself grieving and suddenly alone. The darkness felt heavier.
One Sunday at church, she heard another woman share that she had received free cataract surgery through Sight.org. Church members helped Alice travel to where our team was serving in Afagnan-Bas Mono.
Her surgery was completed the same day.
The following morning, when the bandage was removed, she blinked and began to cry. She looked at the people around her, seeing their faces clearly for the first time in three years.
Now she is getting ready to return to the market. She can see the fish in front of her. She can count her money without fear of mistakes. She can walk on her own again.
Her neighbors are relieved. Her church is thankful.
And Alice is back where she belongs.