More than 130 people regained their independence after receiving free, life-changing cataract procedures at a specialised hospital to mark World Sight Day.

The World Health Organization says that an estimated 2.2 billion people live with vision impairment of some kind.

The Pretoria Eye Institute (PEI) says that for some, the cost of surgery had placed this opportunity beyond their reach. Through this initiative, it was able to help turn that possibility into reality.

“For these patients, cataract surgery represented far more than a medical procedure. It offered the opportunity to see the faces of loved ones more clearly, move through the world with greater confidence, regain independence and rediscover the little moments that make life beautiful,” said Dr Louis van der Hoven, hospital manager.

Van der Hoven said moments such as these remind the institute why they do what they do, and that, beyond the medicine, the technology, the operating theatres and the expertise, there is something far more powerful at the heart of healthcare: the ability to change lives.

“The true value of this initiative lies in what it represents. It reminds us that when people come together with compassion, generosity and a shared purpose, we can do more than provide medical care; we can restore hope,” Van der Hoven added.

Surgical drive transforms lives

Among the 135 patients who benefited from the initiative was 67-year-old Joel Seloane, whose story is a poignant reminder of just how closely sight, communication and quality of life are connected.

Born deaf and never having learnt to speak, Seloane relies on his vision to communicate with and remain connected to his family.

He has also been diagnosed with glaucoma in one eye. Seloane had already lost most of the vision in his right eye when cataracts began affecting his left eye.

Seloane said via his brother that the prospect of losing even more of his sight was distressing for his family, who feared the impact this would have on his independence, daily life and ability to connect.

Through the World Sight Day initiative, Seloane received the cataract surgery he urgently needed.

His family expressed their heartfelt gratitude to the PEI and everyone involved in making the procedure possible.

The PEI expressed appreciation to its doctors, nurses, ophthalmic assistants, administrative teams, sponsors and partners, and every single patient for making the surgery drive a success.

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