Blinded UBC graduate student Rumana Monzur will soon be reunited with her mother and daughter in Vancouver, but doctors have yet to determine whether she will ever see their faces again.
Monzur, 33, was allegedly beaten and gouged in the eyes by her husband on June 5 during a visit to her home country of Bangladesh. She returned to Vancouver with her father last week, hoping that Canadian doctors might be able to restore her sight.
But after three surgeries, doctors have confirmed that the damage to her left eye is "catastrophic," according to a release from UBC. Specialists are now trying to establish whether Monzur will ever see from the other eye.
Despite the discouraging news, Monzur says she is deeply thankful for the support she has received from her friends, fellow students and well-wishers across the country.
"To everyone who has been thinking of me or praying for me – thank you for your support and goodwill," she said in a release.
"Once my doctors and I know more about the condition of my eyes, I hope to update everyone who has been so kind to me."
She says she is anxiously awaiting the imminent arrival of her mother and five-year-old daughter.
"My daughter is eagerly waiting to get to me and she is actually counting her days," Monzur said.
The political science student plans to finish her Master's degree when she is stronger.
Monzur's husband is reported to have attacked her in front of the little girl during a fight over Monzur's studies in Canada. He allegedly bit her nose, face and throat during in the violence.
He has been charged with attempted murder in connection with the assault.
UBC has set a fundraising goal of $70,000 to cover Monzur's medical care and living expenses in Canada, and the school has already raised $58,000 in donations. If you want to help, visit this website.
Students have organized a high tea fundraiser for Saturday, featuring speakers on the issue of women's education. Half the proceeds will go to a fund supporting Monzur, while the rest will benefit Nanhi Kali, a fund helping young Indian women access education.
Tickets are $15. For more information, contact Vinita Banthia by email or at 604-916-1871.
