A 102-year-old great grandmother from KwaZulu Natal was one of the 12 elderly patients who had their eyesight restored free of charge at a Ballito private hospital last week.

Opthamologist Dr Malcolm Carey and a group of anaesthetists have over the past five years teamed up to undertake the sight-restoring operations free of charge for disadvantaged cataract sufferers at the Netcare Alberlito Hospital.

For the 102-year-old Nomanhlanhla Hadebe of the iLembe district in Northern KwaZulu Natal the operation enabled her to once again see her grandchildren and the world around her.

Hadebe’s granddaughter, Busisiwe Mabaso, said her grandmother was “absolutely delighted” that she could see again.

“My grandmother has said repeatedly over the past few years that she wants to be able to see her grandchildren and the world around her. Now her dream has come true and she is overjoyed to be seeing again,” she said.

Carey said it was most gratifying to have been able to assist Hadebe and the other elderly patients, whom he operated on last week.

“Despite an intensive state campaign to reduce cataract blindness in South Africa, thousands of people still suffer from the condition because waiting lists for the procedure are long and many people do not realise that it is treatable.”

“This is unfortunate as cataract blindness is completely reversible in the overwhelming majority of cases. Cataracts can be successfully removed, a special new artificial lens surgically implanted and the patient’s vision completely restored.”

“Cataract procedures are one of the most rewarding aspects of my work as an opthamologist. It is amazing that within just 24 hours a person’s sight can be restored along with their ability to enjoy simple pleasures such as reading.” – news@citizen.co.za