For the past two days we have been busy observing and learning at the Reiyukai Eike Masunaga Eye Hospital. This is an eye hospital based in Banepa that provides patients with all their optometry needs. We are learning how to do basic vision tests of patients so we can assist with vision testing in the remote villages over the coming months.
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During our trips to various villages observing the micro-finance schemes we met Jomoona, a lovely lady who has become our friend - despite the language barrier. Jomoona is the chairperson of the co-operative in Patlekhet Village. While visiting her home we learnt that her father, Jamang, lost all the sight in one eye a number of months back. Ashok (CDRA director) was able to refer him to the eye hospital for treatment. The family was unaware of the possibility of treatment.
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Jamang came to the hospital for an initial check-up and it was discovered he had a cataract. He returned the following day for surgery. We were able to watch this take place. Every two weeks a surgeon from Kathmandu will come to conduct cataract surgeries at the hospital. The operation was amazingly quick and efficient, no more than 10 minutes to remove the cataract and insert a artificial lens.
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Jamang was one of around 30 patients to receive a cataract operation that day. It was very special to see him return the following day to remove the eye patch - he was very happy to be able to see again.
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One of CDRA's projects is to raise funds for 50 cataract operations for people who cannot afford the cost. An operation costs $US20. If you are interested in helping someone regain their sight please let us know.
Patlekhet Village Co-operative
During our trips to various villages observing the micro-finance schemes we met Jomoona, a lovely lady who has become our friend - despite the language barrier. Jomoona is the chairperson of the co-operative in Patlekhet Village. While visiting her home we learnt that her father, Jamang, lost all the sight in one eye a number of months back. Ashok (CDRA director) was able to refer him to the eye hospital for treatment. The family was unaware of the possibility of treatment.
Assessment at Hospital
Cataract Operation
Jamang was one of around 30 patients to receive a cataract operation that day. It was very special to see him return the following day to remove the eye patch - he was very happy to be able to see again.
Jamang - post operation
We look forward to Sunday - when we will be putting our vision testing skills in use at an eye clinic in a remote village.
One of CDRA's projects is to raise funds for 50 cataract operations for people who cannot afford the cost. An operation costs $US20. If you are interested in helping someone regain their sight please let us know.
What an amazing experience! Is that you Ben in the photo standing in the operating theatre?
ReplyDeleteYep thats me, trying not to do something stupid like bump the surgeon or kick a power chord out. Yvonne is hiding behind the lights.
ReplyDeleteJamang called us after and said it was like the gods had come to his house that day and had given him his sight back. talk about the warm fuzzys
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