Sight and lives of elderly restored
Ten patients recently had their vision restored via pro-bono surgeries at the Ethekwini Hospital and Heart Centre (EHHC) in celebration of Eye Care Awareness Month.
IT was an apprehensive, yet exciting morning for an elderly duo, Sabira Shaik (80) and Sarah Msweli (75), as nurses prepared them for cataract surgeries to restore their vision on Tuesday last week.
For years the cataracts have been slowly stealing the vision of the women, affecting their quality of life and preventing them from living their lives to the fullest. However, after Tuesday afternoon this would be the thing of the past.
The women, together with eight other patients, had their vision restored via pro-bono surgeries at the Ethekwini Hospital and Heart Centre (EHHC) in celebration of Eye Care Awareness Month.
Dr Kavitha Naidu, an ophthalmic surgeon restored their sight by removing the cataracts and replacing them with acrylic lens implants – revealing a bright, new world for the patients.
Speaking to the Northglen News prior to her surgery Shaik said she has been unable to cook or care for herself due to the aggressive cataracts in both eyes.
“I love to cook – making rotties and other delicious food brings me joy. But I have not been able to prepare any meals for my family in years. I am feeling excited and look forward to having my independence back,” said the grandmother of eight.
Msweli, who has also been battling with two cataracts, said she was looking forward to being able to read her Bible again. It was a particularly nerve-wrecking morning for the Inanda resident as it was going to be her first surgical procedure.
According to Dr Naidu cataracts are one of the most common forms of ‘correctable vision loss’ in the country.
She explained that a cataract, also known as a ‘clouding of the lens’ develops as a person ages.
“As people grow older their natural clear lenses become yellowed and milky. Colours become dull and images are blurred. This may progress until the person’s vision is completely obstructed,” she said.
“It is incredibly rewarding to be able to give back to deserving individuals, who can not afford health care. It is a small thing and a simple procedure that can give someone their eyesight back,” she added.
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