Free cataract surgery to help HST residents from blindness

Barabai, South Kalimantan (AntaraNewsKalsel) - HST Resort Police held social action of cataract and cleft lip surgery which fully financed by Kick Andy Foundation (KAF), while local governments provided facilities in a hospital surgery room, without charge.

KAF Foundation Chairman Ali Sadikin explained this is purely humanitarian assistance, with no tendency whatsoever. The source of the funds came from public donations, companies CSR, supermarkets, minimarkets and other assistance.

"Every day there are (who) deposit to KAF account. And we have a clear statement of activities, "he said.

He mentioned, in the implementation of social action it has always been supported by those who have a sincere intention to help others, regardless of differences in ethnic, religion, and race. 

"Including the doctors of eye hospital Cecendo and lecturer from Unpad assist the cleft lip and cataract surgery. They do not get paid. We were assisted by doctors who like social work and want to contribute significantly to society in this country," said Ali.

According to Ali, cataract disease in Indonesia is still ranked second in the world. Many sufferers experience blindness, due not afford of paying treatment.

He also mentioned, the cost of cataract surgery for one person is actually only Rp600 thousand. However, a standalone operation may cost more expensive due to pay doctor fees and hospital rates.

Chairman of the Organizing Committee for Free Cataract Surgery, Chief of HST Police Intelligence Unit AKP Agus Sugianto explained, the number who signed up 500s from 11 sub-districts in the HST, but only 182 were examined medically eligible.

Patients after surgery and medication can directly be rechecked tomorrow with free operating costs and medicines. HST Police also provided buses as shuttles for free.