Omar Jassi
By Fatou Sillah
Omar Jassi, a 26-year-old from Sinchu Alagie in the West Coast Region, has faced a debilitating eye ulcer since 2014. Over the years, his condition has deteriorated, threatening his sight and altering his life.
Doctors have warned Jassi and his family that without immediate, specialized treatment, he risks permanent blindness within the next two years. The toll of his worsening vision has rendered him unable to work, leaving him unable to provide for his family. Despite ongoing treatment in Dakar since 2014, his condition remains unchanged.
Medical specialists have recommended urgent overseas treatment—available only in India—but the procedure’s prohibitive cost is far beyond the family’s financial reach. With mounting healthcare expenses already stretching their resources, Jassi’s family struggles to meet even the most basic needs. As the eldest son, Omar now depends entirely on his younger brother for support.
In an exclusive interview with Kerr Fatou, Jassi shared the challenges of his long struggle with the eye ulcer and the devastating impact on his daily life.“I have been diagnosed with an eye ulcer since 2014 and have been struggling since, but currently things have gotten worse which has severely affected my vision and daily life,”Jassi said in an interview. “After consulting with specialists, I was told that the treatment is only available overseas (India), but it comes with significant costs which unfortunately I am unable to afford nor my family, cause even my daily treatment expenses are problems for us, and I am the eldest child.”
His younger brother has become his primary caretaker, a reversal of roles that Jassi never anticipated. The burden has been heavy, not just financially but emotionally.
Now, with time running out, Jassi and his family are making a public appeal for help. They are seeking donations to fund his treatment abroad, hoping for a chance to restore his vision—and his independence.
“I am seeking donations to help facilitate this overseas payment for my treatment. Your support would make a tremendous difference in my journey towards recovery, allowing me to receive the urgent care I need,” Jassi said.