Nearly 40 individuals undergo cataract surgery, thanks to GMA Kapuso Foundation, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation  

Some 39 individuals underwent cataract surgery through the help of GMA Kapuso Foundation and the Buddhist Tzu Chi Medication Foundation Philippines.

According to "24 Oras" Friday, there were an original 74 individuals who underwent screening. The 39 who underwent the surgery were those who successfully passed the lab tests and received cardio-pulmonary clearance. 

Said Dr. Iris Garcia of the Philippine Heart Association, it is important to pass the lab tests and get clearance before undergoing any surgery. "It's safe for you to undergo any operation as long as you're cleared by your cardiologist," Garcia said.

Among the beneficiaries is Cecilia Silva, who is now able to see clearly. "Dati, nakaupo na lang ako sa gild. Salamat sa lahat ng tumulog sa akin kasi nakakakita na naman ako."

GMA Kapuso Foundation Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Rikki Escudero-Catibog said beneficiaries were from Marikina, Rizal's Pililia and Montalban, places that were hit hard by Typhoons Carina and Eateng.

According to the Mayo Clinic, a cataract refers to the clouding of the lens of the eye, resulting in blurry vision. Its symptoms include clouded or dim vision, sensitivity to light, fading or yellowing of colors, double vision, trouble seeing at night, and more.

Another beneficiary, Avelina Jamilla said she had lost hope to see clearly again, when she heard about the outreach on the radio. "Nabuhayan ako ng luob," she said. 

Dr. Edith Navarro, Medical Director of Tzu Chu said "Malaking tulong 'yong nalalalaman nila kung saan available yung consult at kung ano ang gagawin."

For those who wish to support GMA Kapuso Foundation's projects and beneficiaries, donations may be made via Metrobank, Land Bank, BDO, Bank of Commerce, UnionBank, PNB, Cebuana Lhuillier, GCash, Lazada, and Shopee. Visit the GMA Kapuso Foundation website for more information. — LA, GMA Integrated News