More than 40 patients have their sight restored
Patients from across the Mossel Bay sub-district received cataract removals on 11 and 15 March 2025 as part of a cataract outreach initiative aimed at improving eye health and providing life-changing vision restoration to individuals. The outreach offered free cataract removals to individuals who have been screened and referred by their local clinic.
“We are fortunate to have had Dr Bruce-Brand at Mossel Bay Hospital to remove cataracts of 40 patients. We try to commit to at least 4 outreaches per year, although this has been challenging due to the difficulty recruiting an ophthalmologist. We were also assisted by Mr Arie Kade from Vidamed Day Hospital who offered their facilities, along with Dr Nelis le Roux, a private ophthalmologist, who did another 16 cataract surgeries on Saturday, 15 March 2025. A total of 56 cataract surgeries for the week”, said Dr Juliana van Jaarsveld, clinical manager Mossel Bay sub-district.
Cataracts are one of the leading causes of blindness worldwide, and untreated cataracts can severely impact the quality of life, particularly among older adults.
One person who can attest to the debilitating impact of cataracts is Mr Peter Davids from Great Brak River. “ I had my right eye done last year and now I it is the left eye. I am so grateful to the hospital and staff that I will be able to see again. Not only see but be able to read my 1983 print of my Bible”.
Another patient, Valerie Lourens, also from Great Brak River, looks forward to being independent again. Before I had the one eye done, I had to ask people to accompany me everywhere, such as the bank. Bad sight takes away your independence. I am so excited to have the other eye done as well. The staff here are great, especially Sr Seconds. She calmed my nerves and made me feel at ease.
The outreach provides cataract surgery for those diagnosed with the condition and additionally, follow-up care will be provided to ensure the long-term success of the procedures.
“Vision is a critical part of living a full and independent life, and this service will make a significant difference in the lives of those who might otherwise not receive the care they need. By providing free screenings at our clinics and cataract surgeries, we are taking a proactive step toward addressing preventable blindness in our community and ensuring that no one is left behind due to their inability to afford treatment,” said Dr Juliana van Jaarsveld.
Visit your local clinic for screenings and referrals for cataract operations.