I have Stage 3 mature cataracts, which means the cataracts have become so dense and cloudy that very little light can enter my eyes. Vision at this stage is extremely blurred, dim, and distorted — almost like looking through frozen, fogged-over glass. Most people don’t experience this until much later in life, but mine are genetic, which caused them to progress rapidly.

How this affects my daily life

Over the last year, my vision has deteriorated to the point where:

• I cannot clearly see someone standing in front of me if we’re outside

• I can’t drive except slowly in my neighborhood

• Work is painful because I have to squint at a screen all day, leading to severe headaches

• My anxiety has increased watching my vision get worse week after week

Stage 4 for this type of cataract is essentially blindness, and knowing I’m getting closer terrifies me.

The cost

I finally found a doctor who accepts my insurance through Covered California, but because I’m young, I need a special lens that insurance doesn’t fully cover.

My out-of-pocket cost will be $1,500 per eye.

My left eye is the worst and needs surgery urgently.

I am a single mom in San Diego doing everything I can to support my boys. I cover rent, bills, and basic living expenses — but there is no way I can save enough for this surgery on my own right now.

Why I’m asking for help

This past year has been the hardest of my life. My vision has gone from “barely noticeable” to “barely able to see.” Every day is a struggle, and every day I worry about losing more of my sight.

I’m asking for help — even though it’s extremely difficult for me — because I want to be able to see my sons clearly again. I want to drive. I want to work without pain. I want my life back.

How you can help

Anything you can give — even a few dollars — brings me closer to the surgery I desperately need.

Sharing this also helps more than you know.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story, and thank you for helping me fight to keep my vision.