Schoolboy loses sight in damaged eye

– organisation raising funds for prosthetic

Christopher Boucher, the 13-year-old who sustained injuries to his left eye last October after being pelted with a brick, received the unfortunate news last week that he will never regain sight in the damaged eye.

This was relayed by Sabrina Craig, CEO of the Champions of Change Organisation, which has been managing Boucher’s case.

Craig informed that this revelation was made by Surinamese doctors of the hospital, Acdemisch Ziekenhuis Paramaribo during a visit last week, as they explained that Boucher had lost too much fluid from the eye for anything to be done.

In a previous interview, Craig had told this publication that money was being raised to fund a trip to Trinidad where the corrective surgery was to take place. However, she explained on Wednesday that the travel to Suriname had been to see if they could secure a cheaper price as the organization has a relationship with the hospital.

With the delivery of the dreaded news, the organization is pressing for a new goal; rather than corrective surgery, funds will now go toward cosmetic surgery for creating an artificial eye for the teen. The cost of the surgery is said to be US$3,000.

Craig noted that the aim of the surgery is to allow Boucher to feel secure and confident in himself, and to help him avoid being mocked. During Stabroek News’ visit to the office on Wednesday, Boucher appeared high in spirits, as on every other occasion, clearing the air with a few well-timed jokes. He is one of eight children.

In the effort of raising funds for the surgery, Champions of Change is hosting a “wet fete” on Phagwah day, March 12, at the Square of the Revolution. Tickets to support the cause are $500 and can be bought at the organisation’s office located on the top floor of the Maraj building at the corner of Charlotte and King streets. Additionally, Craig can be contacted at 647-7739 or 679-3230.

“We’re pleading with the public to support. Don’t give up on him,” Craig said.