Nearly 70 elderly people from Trashigang have regained their vision following successful eye surgeries at Trashigang Hospital. The weeklong mobile surgical eye camp and outreach clinic also brought similar relief to hundreds across eastern Bhutan.
During the weeklong mobile surgical eye camp and outreach clinic, nearly 70 elderly people from Trashigang underwent eye surgeries at Trashigang Hospital.
This year alone, more than 300 eye surgeries were carried out across the six eastern districts under the program. In the past, patients had to travel to Monggar Hospital for such services. But now, with the outreach program, medical teams are bringing the services closer to people, right to their district hospitals.
Most of the patients were treated for cataract and pterygium. A cataract is the clouding of the eye’s natural lens, mostly due to ageing. Pterygium, on the other hand, is a tissue growth over the white part of the eye, often caused by exposure to sun, wind, and dust.
“Earlier, I couldn’t see clearly and thought it was just because of age. But after the surgery, I can now see everything much better, and I’m very happy,” said Pema Wangdi from Udzorong.
“In the past, I couldn’t see properly and often felt like I would fall while walking. After the surgery, my vision has improved,” said Tshering Chezom from Sakteng.
“My eyesight had suddenly become poor, and I felt unhappy. But now I can walk around on my own and even look around freely. It makes me very happy,” said Sangay Dorji from Kanglung.
The patients were provided free food and accommodation within the hospital premises throughout the camp.
The program concludes today, but similar surgical camps will continue in other districts. The next one is planned at Nganglam Hospital in Pema Gatshel next month.
Sonam Darjay, Trashigang
Edited by Tandin Phuntsho
