The Tribune

By IVOINE INGRAHAM

Cataracts are real. Far more Bahamians have them than one would imagine. We ignore them because they appear to be just a sight problem that can be adjusted with glasses.

I must share my testimony.

I have been doing art, writing, helping with my Junkanoo Group Colours and going through my daily routine with one eye for twelve years. I never complained and told no one. I maintained a positive mental attitude, and despite struggling to see, I continued with my life’s journey. I had several glasses prescriptions changed, hoping for relief, but none was forthcoming. I became intimately involved with the numerous programs and projects, wrote commentary and assisted others in their work while still becoming passionately involved in my art, doing research and never complaining.

I became so engrossed in the habit that I did not seek assistance but assisted others with the necessary information for the procedure. While putting others first, I procrastinated in addressing my concerns.

My sight became progressively more challenging, but I waited, saying “tomorrow” and “the next day”, which lengthened. The more demands placed on me, the less I remembered that I was operating at half speed and power.

The occasional demand to do more took its toll, but I endured quietly, promising to do better. I did not realise there was gradual deterioration: the more I worked, the less urgency I felt to resolve the matter.

I would get some rest, hoping it would clear up, yet I prevailed. It is hard for anyone with 20/20 vision in both eyes to appreciate the magnitude of these comments, but the value of sight becomes stronger when sight fails.

So, reality struck when I realised I had utterly lost my peripheral vision, and driving at night became progressively dangerous; experiencing a few near misses made the urgency paramount. This urgency, this need for immediate action, is what I want to convey to you all. We cannot afford to wait until our sight is severely impaired. We must act now to prevent such situations, which come down to life or death.

Cataract is the leading cause of blindness worldwide today. It is gradual but never gets better. The vast majority of these people live in developing nations. The Bahamas is no different, with hundreds battling challenges with their eyesight because of cataracts.

While cataract blindness is curable through surgery, most people remain challenged because they cannot afford eye care and surgery. The fallout of blindness has far-reaching human implications. The surgery of the implantation of intraocular lenses, the cure for cataract blindness, involves a simple, safe, and effective procedure.

The government’s program to restore sight through its numerous partnerships and the need to deliver this sight-giving surgery to people with financial challenges are powerful.

The government is locked in on providing help even though the efforts are being diluted and overlooked due to the narrow-mindedness of some individuals who prioritise short-term gains over the long-term benefits of such initiatives. This program is about restoring sight and fostering a sense of community support and shared responsibility. It’s about understanding that we all have a role to play in ensuring the well-being of our fellow citizens.

The seriousness of the program and the ramifications of the recipients’ appreciation are immeasurable. The restored sight improves their quality of life and allows them to contribute more effectively to their families, communities and the nation.

On Thursday, I flew to Abaco and experienced firsthand what the Eye Program meant to Bahamians. I underwent the procedure, which was quick and straightforward and took approximately thirty minutes. A highly skilled team performed this procedure.

After the procedure, I spoke with several patients who had just been treated. Their gratitude was palpable, and they couldn’t help but “praise the Lord” for the gesture of having the eye surgery to remove Cataracts. There was a crescendo of thanks because they were tormented for years, just like me, and could not afford to have it done otherwise. Only a caring government would overlook the cost and provide the treatment that brought relief, both physically and emotionally, to so many.

The NGO Liquid Legacy and a very professional team from the World Cataract Foundation, a most experienced team, soon restored my sight and allowed me to rediscover the beauty of the world around me. Their professionalism and expertise on display at the Marsh Harbour Mini Hospital, where they performed 119 cataract surgeries free of charge, proves the reality. I spoke to several patients, mostly seniors, who were there for follow-up; they “praise the Lord” for the wisdom of implementing this much-needed program. Their relief and gratitude filled the room with hope and optimism.

According to recently announced policies, the government’s bold initiative for persons, primarily seniors, with glaucoma, retinal detachments, and cataracts, which is desperately needed and would also be restored through The Bahamas/Cuba Medical Tourism Eye Care Project and the Chinese government’s Bright Eye cataract initiative, is expected to begin shortly. With its comprehensive approach and commitment to restoring sight, these initiatives are a reassuring sign of the government’s support for the health and well-being of all Bahamians.

Kudos to the Minister of Health, Dr Michael Darville, for his vision and passion in implementing such a life-changing program for all Bahamians. His leadership and commitment have made a significant difference in the lives of many, including mine.

I also want to acknowledge the outstanding professionalism of Kristonnia Stubbs, clinic administrator at Marsh Harbour Mini Hospital, and the entire staff for the sterile atmosphere. Their dedication and hard work are truly inspiring, and I feel proud and eternally grateful for the care displayed to all patients who made a significant difference in my life and the lives of many others. I urge everyone to support such initiatives and show appreciation for the healthcare professionals who work tirelessly to improve our lives.

The late great Johnny Nash penned,

“I can see clearly now; the rain is gone

I can see all the obstacles in my way

Gone are the dark clouds that had me blind

It’s gonna be a bright (bright), bright (bright) Sun-shiny day

I think I can make it now; the pain is gone

All of the bad feelings have disappeared

Here is the rainbow I’ve been prayin’ for

It’s gonna be a bright (bright), bright (bright) Sun-shiny day.”