In the first week of August, Dr Ross Littlewood, Dr Phil House, Cheryl Doran, Elise Crofts, John Kingshott and Jan Lovie-Kitchin made their way to Maubisse, a small town 1400m above sea level. This small town is located in the mountains, which some may know as where the climb to the summit of the famous Mt Ramalau begins.
During their week, the team screened over 141 patients and performed 52 cataract removal operations. With Fred Hollows New Zealand’s additional support, the program could transport a greater number of patients to and from Maubisse hospital allowing more patients to be treated who would not be able to access the service otherwise.
The team worked well together and greatly appreciated the local support offered by two well-trained Timorese theatre assistants – Bell and Cornelio – who not only provided excellent theatre skills but allowed the team to ensure our patients were comfortable and reassured in local language during their procedures.
A great week it was!
