Eighteen elderly Free State patients gained renewed vision and opportunities as Mediclinic Bloemfontein undertook a series of pro bono cataract surgeries during October. Private patients who were unable to afford the procedure underwent cataract surgery at Mediclinic Bloemfontein’s Day Clinic, enabling them to return to their daily lives without the sight limitations that had affected their quality of life in recent years.
Three ophthalmologists based at the Mediclinic Day Clinic – Dr Shannon Callaway, Dr Dawie Botes and Dr Gehard Kamffer – began the procedures on 6 October and continued until 29 October. Anaesthetists involved in the surgeries also donated their time and services. The Right to Sight Foundation assisted by donating the lenses used for the 18 surgeries, allowing the team to expand access to these life-changing procedures.
“These patients are elderly, but within the South African context, this does not mean they are retired. They are often breadwinners or primary caregivers – quite often looking after children or grandchildren. So, if their eyesight is poor, it often means they cannot read or drive – which impacts their entire family and, ultimately, the whole community. This is where our doctors and nursing teams can step in and make a difference not only to our patients, but to their families too,” explains Carol Defty, general hospital manager of Mediclinic Bloemfontein.
These surgeries formed part of a broader campaign across several provinces during October, as Mediclinic celebrated Eye Care Awareness Month. “Mediclinic has been performing pro bono surgeries for years, and we are grateful that our employees and doctors are always keen to get involved. We see clients come in, and we know that when they are discharged, their lives have been changed for the better. It’s inspiring,” says Defty.
