CASE STORIES: A Journey of Resilience - Mr Babli’s Battle with Vision Loss

by Barkha Kardam – Cornea Department & Project Coordinator, Assistant to Dr Manisha Acharya

Treating Doctor – Dr Manisha Acharya

A Childhood Accident, a Lifetime of Struggle

“My world changed forever when a childhood accident left my eye severely injured. The pain and trauma lingered, a constant reminder of that fateful day. Years passed, but the struggles persisted. My eyes continued to suffer, and with each passing day the pain and redness intensified.”

Bulandshahr, Uttar Pradesh – At 55 years old, Mr Babli has faced immense challenges throughout his journey to preserve his vision. A known case of recurrent corneal viral keratitis causing persistent inflammation of the cornea, he has endured multiple surgeries to save his sight. Unfortunately, despite undergoing several emergency keratoplasty procedures, his condition has worsened over time. As a one-eyed patient, with his right eye being normal, every effort was made to salvage his remaining vision. However, the repeated infections and complications led to his left eye becoming phthisical, rendering it functionally lost.

A Ray of Hope in Delhi

“In 2020 I found my way to Dr Shroff's Charity Eye Hospital in Delhi. The hospital's reputation for excellence and compassion drew me in, and I placed my trust in their skilled hands. After multiple surgeries, my eye still struggled to heal. But the doctors at Dr Shroff's refused to give up on me. They suggested a cornea transplant, and I knew it was my only hope. The surgery was a success, and my eye began to heal. The pain vanished, replaced by a sense of clarity and wonder. I can see the world with newfound clarity, and I'm forever grateful.”

Doctors have now provided Mr Babli with an option for evisceration with an implant, a decision that rests on his willingness to proceed. Throughout his medical journey, he has been supported by compassionate doctors who have not only provided medical care but also motivation, emotional support and financial assistance.

A Heartfelt Thank You

“To the entire team at Dr Shroff's, I offer my deepest gratitude. Your selfless dedication to providing quality eye care is a beacon of hope for those struggling with vision loss. You've restored my sight, but more importantly, you've restored my faith in humanity.”