After three years on a waiting list, 84-year-old community stalwart Elizabeth Khumalo has had her sight restored through a Rotary-supported cataract surgery programme.

The operation for Khumalo, who continues to serve as co-ordinator of Vulamehlo Hospice in Melville, was made possible through the Rotary Club of Zimbali’s involvement in a cataract surgery camp held at General Justice Gizenga Mpanza Regional Hospital in May.

The initiative aimed to reduce the hospital’s cataract surgery backlog and restore sight to disadvantaged patients across the iLembe District. More than 100 patients underwent surgery during the programme.
The restoration of Khumalo’s eyesight is a fitting reward for a woman who has dedicated much of her life to serving her community.

Known for her compassion and commitment to helping others, Khumalo recently retired as a committee member of The North Coast Courier Orphan Fund, where she played a key role in identifying families and individuals in genuine need of support.

Despite stepping down from the fund, she remains actively involved with Vulamehlo Hospice, which has provided palliative and home-based care to patients with life-threatening illnesses in the KwaDukuza area for more than 16 years.

The hospice supports many people who cannot afford private healthcare, offering comfort, dignity and care during difficult times.

“My vision is now very clear, and I would like to sincerely thank the Rotary Club of Zimbali and The North Coast Courier Orphan Fund. I must also commend the staff at General Justice Gizenga Mpanza Regional Hospital for their outstanding care.

“I honestly expected there would be some pain, but there was none, and everything went very well. I will always be grateful. Thank you,” she said.