Lions International District 418 offers free cataract surgeries for 100 underprivileged patients

In commemoration of World Sight Day on October 10, 2024, Lions International District 418, under the leadership of Lion Dr. Helena Asamoah-Hassan, provided free cataract surgeries for 100 underprivileged patients.

The surgeries, held at the Save the Nation's Sight Clinic, were part of an effort to bring essential eye care to those who could not afford treatment. The initiative formed part of the Lions International District 418 Ghana Vision Project, which ran from October 7 to 10, 2024.

In addition to the surgeries, the project featured a community sensitization and education campaign aimed at raising awareness about eye health. Volunteers took to the streets, sharing vital information with the public, while holding placards promoting the importance of eye care.

“Cataracts are not something you should live with. They can be treated through surgery,” explained Dr. Fiti Kwarteng, an optometrist at the Save the Nation's Sight Clinic. She added that some patients had bilateral cataracts and would undergo surgery on both eyes, restoring their vision.

“We learned that many people had been on the waiting list for cataract surgery for years because they couldn’t afford it. As Knights of the Blind, we believe that restoring sight is one of the most invaluable gifts one can give,” stated District Governor Lion Dr. Helena Asamoah-Hassan.

Lion Dr. Isaac Owusu, Chairperson for District 418, urged individuals with cataracts to seek medical care, emphasizing that the condition is treatable.

Meanwhile, Lion Oscar Onai, District Marketing and Communications Chairperson, called on individuals and organizations to support the mission of Lions International in extending free medical services to more people.

Several beneficiaries expressed their gratitude for the free surgeries.

“I am very grateful to them. Without their help, I wouldn’t have been able to afford the surgery,” said one recipient.

Another added, “I heard about the free surgery through a WhatsApp message, and they even gave me transport fare. I didn’t pay for anything.”

Lions International, a charitable organization serving communities since 1917, focuses on key areas including childhood cancer, diabetes, hunger, and vision care. Since 2024, they have ramped up efforts to support those with sight-related issues, particularly in observance of World Sight Day.

Through this initiative, Lions International District 418 continues to make a meaningful impact by ensuring that those in need of vital eye surgeries receive the care they require, reinforcing their commitment to serving the underprivileged.