A 57-year-old resident of Chiga village, Kisumu, Morris Oyola, is among hundreds who have benefited from a free eye camp organized by Kisumu county, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital in partnership with Pankaj Social Services. His life was significantly impacted by a recent cataract that developed in his right eye, hindering his ability to perform daily tasks on his farm.
The free eye camp, which began on September 23rd, has been screening patients across Kisumu County to identify those with cataracts. Mr. Oyola seized the opportunity to get screened at Chiga sub county hospital and is now scheduled for surgery at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH).
The surgery, scheduled for September 30th, offers him a glimmer of hope for a future where he can restore his sight and return to providing for his family. Despite being able to see with his left eye, the inability to use his right eye has made his day-to-day tasks nearly impossible.
Mr. Oyola encourages more people in the community to get their eyes checked, noting that many have eyesight problems. The free camp is a chance to improve their vision without the heavy financial burden that such procedures typically entail.
The camp has already screened patients at various locations in Kisumu County, and upcoming screenings will take place in Muhoroni, Kandege, Ahero, and Nyang’ande. For those scheduled for surgeries, the surgical team at JOOTRH will provide essential support, including toiletries, slippers, and nutritious meals.
The free eye clinic has been a major success in improving access to eye care in Kisumu County, and many more residents are expected to benefit from the screenings and surgeries.
