Cataract patients in South Fly receive treatments

More than 200 people in South Fly District who were blind or had cloudy vision can now see again following a successful five-day cataract surgical outreach in Daru.

The outreach was held from September 21st to 25th, 2026, led by the Laila Foundation and Pacific International Hospital, bringing specialist eye care to the people of South Fly.

A total of 238 patients attended general screening. Of those, 205 were confirmed to have cataracts. Health workers also identified one pterygium case, one corneal laceration and one con- junk-tival cyst.

During the five days, doctors performed a total of 208 surgeries. This included 205 cataract surgeries, one pterygium excision, one corneal repair and one conjunctival cyst excision.

Forty-four patients had both eyes operated on, while 161 patients had one eye operated on.

Post-operative assessments show very good outcomes, with many patients who were totally blind now having their sight restored.

The program was supported by PNG Sustainable Development Program Ltd, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Callan Services National Unit and the hardworking staff of the Western Provincial Health Authority led by Sister Helen Gagole.

The Laila Foundation continues to provide specialist eye care across PNG, working with Pacific International Hospital to reach provinces where eye specialists are not available.

The Western Provincial Health Authority has thanked the Laila Foundation, PIH and all partners for restoring sight to the people of Western Province.