A total of 88 Essequibians suffering from various vision impairments are seeing life more clearly now, thanks to a successful eye surgical outreach hosted at the National Ophthalmology Hospital in Port Mourant, Berbice.

This initiative, which marks the first eye surgical outreach for 2025, was made possible through the Ministry of Health in collaboration with the Regional Democratic Council (Region Two) and the National Ophthalmology Hospital.

The free surgeries brought renewed hope to the residents, and showcased what can be achieved through collaboration, compassion, and commitment.

The initial screening and evaluation of patients was done in April at the Suddie Public Hospital and Oscar Joseph District Hospital at Charity, under the care of the region’s dedicated optometrist, Dr. Angelina Lall.

Of the 101 patients screened, 88 underwent successful surgeries earlier this month. The procedures included 52 cataract surgeries, 18 pterygium surgeries, five laser surgeries, seven cataract and laser surgeries, one pterygium surgery and retinal consultation, three cataract surgeries and retinal consultations and two retinal specialist consultations.

Surgery for five patients was postponed following re-evaluation and will be accommodated in a subsequent batch. Four patients missed the trip—three due to communication issues and one due to illness, while four others had scheduling conflicts and will be contacted again.

To ensure smooth access to care, free transportation for ten patients was organised by the region’s Regional Health Services and they were accompanied by nursing staff to ensure their comfort and safety on the long journey from Essequibo to Berbice.

Dr. Ranjeev Singh, the Regional Health Officer, emphasised that the outreach was part of the Government of Guyana’s continued commitment to accessible health care.

He extended heartfelt thanks to Dr. V. Khirodar for her vital role in the programme’s organisation and praised Dr. Lall for her tireless dedication, noting her willingness to work beyond regular hours to serve both vision clinics with professionalism and care.

Patients travelled from communities as far as Charity to access this opportunity. Among them was Liloutie Janne of Golden Fleece, who shared her gratitude after her cataract removal surgery.

“I’m so happy I got my eyes cleaned. Everything was smooth. I give all praises to the Government of Guyana for this chance,” an emotional Janne said.