The Afghan Red Crescent Society (ARCS) in Helmand, with financial support from Qatar, has successfully performed free surgeries on more than 270 eye patients.
Officials report that these eye surgeries were conducted in Lashkargah city and several districts of Helmand.
Fazl Mohammad Fazli, the head of ARCS, said: “A total of 271 surgeries were performed. In addition, 1,672 patients were seen in the outpatient department (OPD), around 542 near-sighted glasses were distributed, and 1,672 protection sheets were handed out.” Doctor Mohammad Jaswar Ibrahimkhil said, “Among the patients who came for surgery, there were those who had been blind for 5 to 7 or even 8 years. However, they successfully underwent surgery here and are now very happy.” Borjan, a 68-year-old resident of Nawa district in Helmand, had been struggling with vision problems for years but could not afford timely treatment due to financial challenges. He expressed his happiness to TOLOnews, saying, “I have come here from a long distance, and I am pleased that they are providing services to the people here.” Several other patients welcomed the initiative, saying they could not afford eye treatment due to economic difficulties. Rahmatullah, a resident of Helmand, said, “I have had eye problems for about 14 to 15 years. I couldn’t afford to treat my eye condition, and it’s been about 8 to 9 years that my wife’s eye developed a cataract, but we couldn’t afford the treatment.” Gul Mohammad, another resident of Helmand, added: “Many people have gathered here with us. When we arrived, they told us that the time was up, but I hope this process continues.” According to the officials of ARCS in Helmand, hundreds of residents in the province still suffer from eye diseases, and efforts are being made to provide free treatment for them as well.
