Giving sight to those in need

Intercare, Operation Healing Hands and ophthalmologist Dr. Marcel Niemandt, will once again give back sight to those in need by offering free cataract surgeries during South Africa’s Eye Care Awareness Week.

A cataract is a ‘clouding’ of the normally clear crystalline lens in the human eye. Colors can seem faded, and night vision can also be affected. When the cataract becomes very dense, these symptoms can be very severe and even completely block a patient’s vision. Once it’s passed the early stages, cataracts cannot be corrected with glasses or contact lenses and the only effective treatment option is surgery with specialized equipment.

For people who do not have medical aid, the procedure can be costly, and waiting lists at state hospitals can be up to three years long.

On 14 and 15 October 2019, Dr. Marcel Niemandt will perform 45 free cataract surgeries in the Intercare Hazeldean Day Hospital. Apart from the partnership between Dr. Niemandt, Operation Healing Hands and Intercare, these procedures are made possible by several role players. With the kind support of Alcon, Allergan, Bausch & Lomb, Caring Daisies, Genop, Help Lift, Helpende Hand, Ophtec, the Red Group, Right to Sight, Round Table, Trinity Clothing and Van Heerden Pharmacies, the lives of 45 people will be touched in a magnificent way.  

‘It is a team effort and the post-surgery smiles of patients when the protective shields are removed, is al the thanks we need,’ says Dr. Niemandt.