VANCOUVER – It appears UBC grad student Rumana Monzur won’t be able to see again after all. In a statement released today, the University of British Columbia says Monzur’s vision will be impossible to restore.
The 33-year-old was granted a temporary resident permit to have her eyes examined in Canada after an alleged attack by her husband left her with severe eye damage and facial injuries.
Monzur had four surgeries performed so far in an attempt to restore some vision, but her injuries were found to be “beyond repair.”
“It had been my wish to recover my eyesight so I could see all the people who have been helping me. I want you all to pray for me. My family and I will need some time to adjust to this news,” said Monzur in a statement.
While on a break from her Masters studies in Political Science at UBC, Monzur says she was attacked by her husband on her visit to her native Bangladesh in June. Her eyes were gouged and part of her nose was bitten off.
She arrived in Canada on July 5, accompanied by her father, to begin her medical treatment immediately.
Monzur’s mother and 5-year-old daughter, who is believed to have witnessed the attack, are expected to arrive in Canada soon.
Thousands of dollars have been donated to help support Monzur as she recovers from her physical and emotional wounds.
To date, UBC has received more than $61,000 in donations. The hope is to raise at least $70,000 to cover health needs, living expenses and tuition costs for Monzur to complete her studies.
To donate, go to: www.ubc.ca/helprumana
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