In conjunction with World Sight Day 2021, VISTA Eye Specialist (VISTA) has pledged to provide 100 charity cataract surgeries through a joint community service project with Tzu Chi Malaysia, thereby improving the quality of life of the affected individuals and their families.
This project aims to provide cataract surgery to the needy and underprivileged who may require it. Selected individuals will undergo comprehensive eye examinations by VISTA, followed by cataract surgery. Days after the surgery, follow-up visits were scheduled to monitor their vision recovery and progress.
The three-month-long VISTA x Tzu Chi’s ‘100 Charity Cataract Surgery Project’ was launched in early September last year with an online ceremony, with the first batch of surgeries taking place on Sept 13, 2021 at VISTA’s Petaling Jaya – The Curve, Puchong, and Cheras branches, with eight ophthalmologists and over 40 staff members.
Cataracts are a blurring of the natural lens in the eyes that affects vision and can be caused by ageing, excessive UV exposure, steroids, and diabetes, among other things. If cataract surgery, which is the only effective way to remove them, is not done promptly, severe vision loss may result.
According to the 2018 National Eye Survey (NESII) results, untreated cataracts (58.6 per cent) are still the leading cause of blindness in Malaysia.
Dr Paul Lim, the leading VISTA Ophthalmologist in this community project, said: “Cataract does not discriminate by race or sex, and not income.
“That is why it is important to treat cataracts by performing surgery as early as possible – to restore eyesight, quality of life and the ability to work for a living.”
Sio Kee Hong, Deputy CEO of Tzu Chi Malaysia KL Selangor Chapter, said: “We are pleased to team up with VISTA in the fight against one of the leading causes of vision impairment and preventable blindness in Malaysia.
“By leveraging on VISTA and its specialities, we aim to help people with cataracts from the lower-income groups and the underprivileged.
“Tzu Chi is committed to providing relief to those in suffering and be the beacon of hope in times of need.”
Chloe Wong, VISTA’s Chief Marketing Officer, echoes the same sentiment: “In line with VISTA’s vision to safely help people to see their best and changing lives, we are truly honored to join arms with Tzu Chi Malaysia in reaching out to the needy.
