Etwatwa resident Frances Jiyane has taken steps many are reluctant to take by getting his overall health care status checked and guarding the most valuable gift a person can have – eyesight.
As part of the Stroke, Eye Care and Pharmacy Awareness Campaign, the City of Ekurhuleni recently took its integrated health services to Stompie Skhosana Community Hall in Etwatwa to encourage residents to take their health status seriously.
Optometry services was amongst the amenities available to the community as part of Eye Care Awareness Month, which is commemorated from September 21 to October 18.
“Finally, I will get the attention my eyes deserve; I’ve been taking eye drops for years with no relief to the burning eye sensation and the blurry vision,” said Jiyane.
“I’m here because I don’t want to be blind, I want to see my grandchildren grow.”
The health awareness campaign attracted about 600 residents from Etwatwa and surrounding areas who were educated about the importance of eye health, specifically around the prevention and treatment of preventable blindness.
Some of the eye care tips shared with residents include the following:
• Visit an optometrist or doctor regularly, don’t ignore problems with your eyes.
• Protect your eyes from damage or scratches from foreign objects that can lead to infection or damage.
• Wear protective eye-wear when working with equipment that may cause ruins to fly into your eyes.
• Wear sunglasses that give your eyes proper protection from the damaging rays of the sun.
• Take regular breaks from your computer screen to minimise eye strain and the development of eye-focusing problems.
Residents also received free diabetes testing machines to allow them to closely monitor their diabetes levels in the comfort of their homes, which if not controlled may also lead to blindness.
Also read: Awaken your eyes
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