How did you benefit from World Sight Day?

More than 1,200 people had free eyesight tests at Mahosot Hospital last week, to mark World Sight Day. During the event, people learned about the importance of eye health and some were given glasses to improve their eyesight. Vientiane Times asked some of those who attended the event for their thoughts about the help provided.

     
Mr Kom Phimthavong, 79: I am retired and learnt about this event on television. I heard that the hospital would give free eye tests and would also provide free glasses if necessary. I also heard that free treatment would be available if any problems were found. I know that our eyes are very important but a lot of people don’t know how to take good care of them. I have had a problem with my eyes since I was young and now I almost can’t see anything. I’m so happy that this event took place because it can solve a lot of people’s problems.
 
Mr Kongsen Louanglath, 67: I learnt about this event on Facebook and also from my relatives. Mahosot Hospital staff gave everyone eye tests and also gave people advice about ways to improve their eyesight and care for their eyes. Some people were given glasses to enable them to see better. I have had cataracts for some months and recently I have experienced pain and have not been able to see well. I went to the hospital at 7am because I was very pleased at the prospect of getting free treatment. The event was very well organised.
 
Mrs Somsy Boutsavath, 77: I’m a housewife and must admit that I don’t pay enough attention to my eyes. I have never been for an eye test because I felt I couldn’t afford it. I learnt about the event today from my daughter who works at the hospital. I have problems with my eyes and would like to be able to see better. There’s either something wrong or I’m just getting old. I can’t see very well and it’s a problem when I want to read or do other things. I had my eyesight tested and was given some glasses. The doctor told me I would get a call from the hospital if the tests showed that anything was wrong with my eyes. I’m pleased to see that the government cares about our eyesight and wants to help.
 
Mr Amkha Phanthavong: I learnt about this event on Facebook. I have a problem with my right eye and think there must be something wrong because sometimes I have pain, especially when I’m outside in the hot sun. I’m happy to see so many medical staff here today because it means that they care about our eyes. I think it’s very important that we know how to take care of our eyes and I think more screening is needed because so many people have problems with their eyesight but don’t bother to do anything about it.

By Patithin Phetmeuangphua
(Latest Update October 3, 2022)