BETONG: A group of 34 elderly people from various places here have successfully undergone cataract operation at the Betong Hospital.
The operation is a joint effort of Kuching Metro Lions Club, the Cataract Clinic of the Health Ministry and the Opthalmology Department of the Sarawak General Hospital.
Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah, who is also Bukit Saban assemblyman, sponsored 35 intraocular lenses for the patients.
The three-day operation, the 11th done here, started on Friday, according to Andrew Chioh of the Kuching Metro Lions.
He said since its inception in 2013, about 400 people had benefitted.
Uggah, in his launching remark, described the programme as “very meaningful”.
“We are helping to restore the sight of those affected. Bad eyesight because of cataract seems to be a problem among elderly folk in the rural areas. Those affected feel helpless not knowing the sickness is curable,” he said.
According to him, many actually knew the sickness and associated it with old age but few cared to seek treatment either because of the cost involved or not knowing how to go about getting treated.
“My advice to those with the problem here is please check with the doctors to determine if you really have it. Upon confirmation, register yourself at the Betong Hospital for the next round of treatment.
“The preliminary screening is on from July 21 until Aug 2, this year while the cataract operations are scheduled from Aug 16 to 18 at this hospital,” he said.
According to him, in Betong Division some 400 people have been treated with new technology and by skillful eye specialists.
Uggah added he was very honoured to be given the opportunity to help those who needed such treatment through the programme.
He commended Kuching Metro Lions for their tireless efforts in carrying out a very useful and beneficial community service programme.
Uggah also reminded the people, especially former patients, to look after their eyes properly.
A patient, Gandun Jimbau, 73, expressed her joy at being able to see again after undergoing the treatment.
She described her new sight as God’s gift and thanked Kuching Metro Lions, Sarawak General Hospital, the Health Ministry as well as Uggah and all the doctors, nurses and other staff of the Betong Hospital.
