BETONG, Feb 23: A group of 34 elderly folks from various places here have successfully undergone cataract operations at the Betong Hospital since yesterday.
The operation is a collaboration between the Kuching Metro Lions Club, the Cataract Clinic of the Health Ministry and the Ophthalmology Department of the Sarawak General Hospital.
Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah, who is also Bukit Saban state assemblyman, sponsored 35 intraocular lenses for the patients.
The three-day operation, the 11th done here, started Friday (Feb 22), said Kuching Metro Lions representative Andrew Chioh.
Since the programme’s inception in 2013, about 400 people have benefited from the operation, he added.
Uggah, in his remarks when launching the programme, described the initiative as very meaningful to the community.
“We are helping to restore the sight of those affected. Bad eyesight because of cataracts seems to be a problem among elderly folks in rural area.
“Those affected feel helpless not knowing the sickness is curable. But in the Betong division, we have helped to restore the eyesight of about 400 people with new technology and skillful eye specialists.
“My advice to those with the problem here is to please check with the doctors to determine if you really have it,” he said.
Uggah advised patients to register themselves at the Betong Hospital for the next round of treatment.
“The preliminary screening is on July 21 until Aug 2 this year. The cataract operations are scheduled from Aug 16-18 at this hospital,” he said.
Uggah was honoured to be given the opportunity to help those who needed such treatment through the programme. He commended the Kuching Metro Lions for their tireless efforts in carrying out a very useful and beneficial community service programme.
He also reminded the people, especially former patients, to look after their eyesight health properly.
A patient Gandun Jimbau, 73, expressed her joy at being able to see clearly again after undergoing the treatment. She described it as God’s gift to her, while expressing gratitude to the organisers in making the operation possible for her and others. — DayakDaily
