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Ophthalmic Nurse, Adamu tests Lawrence's eyesight. © Vincent Starr / Sightsavers
Seeing stars
Lawrence from Cameroon was completely blind when he was identified by ophthalmic nurses, Mvi Adamu and Agbor Augusta Eyong. They were conducting house-to house calls in Lawrence's village of Ntale, to identify people with eye problems.
Lawrence is in his 80s and lives alone. He has no income, as he has outlived all the members of his family, and is only able to survive due to the kindness of his neighbours, who provide him with food.
"For the last 20 years I have had nobody to take care of me and have been unable to do anything for myself," said Lawrence. "A white cloud descended over my eye and I stopped being able to see. I cannot even see the sky and the stars, which I really miss."
Adamu tested Lawrence's eyesight using an eye chart, a tonometer (an instrument used to see whether the eyes are operable) and an ophthalmoscope, which is used to test whether the eye is healthy. He diagnosed cataract in Lawrence's left eye, but found the right one had been damaged by trauma.
Adamu recommended Lawrence travel to Mamfe district hospital, over 50 miles away for an operation. Due to torrential rain and the conditions of the road it would have been impossible for Lawrence to make the journey without the Sightsavers vehicle to take him.
When the bandages were removed it was clear that Lawrence's surgery had been a success. He could see for the first time in 22 years; it was an overwhelming moment for him and the staff at the hospital.
After an eventful five hour journey back to the village Lawrence was led from the Sightsavers truck to celebrate with the people in his village. He was delighted with the results of the operation.
"I am so happy I can see better already," he said. "Finally I will be able to go to the toilet on my own, and prepare food for the first time in so long and all without having to rely on anyone else for help. I give my praises to God and to Sightsavers. If I can see the stars once more I will take you all to be my second God!"
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