PMI Holds Free Eye Treatment

Manado, July 11 (ANTARA) - Indonesian Red Cross (PMI) of Talaud district holds free eye treatment, including medication and surgery for two days in Melonguane, North Sulawesi. "This free eye treatment has started from July 10 until today," head of Talaud Red Cross Ivon Bentelu said here on Wednesday. Bentelu explained that, on the first day, as many as 11 people underwent cataract surgeries, and 101 examination and medication were conducted. Moreover, 34 treatments will be continued on the second day. The Head of Talaud district Constan Ganggali considered such activity as a beneficial health program for the citizens, especially those with weak economic conditions. "As the regional head, I am very grateful to Talaud Red Cross for helping the community sincerely in this health charity program," Ganggali expressed. Talaud Red Cross` secretary Arvan Bawangun uttered that all the patients taking the eye treatments were local citizens who could not afford the treatment because of economic limitations. "Some cataract patients must get through initial examination or screening at hospital before undergoing the surgery," Bawangun added. The coordinator of North Sulawesi Red Cross, Ferru Rasubala informed that people could get free eye treatment after signing up directly at the site and health center in the district. "This event is done due to cooperation between Talaud Red Cross and Eye Health Center of North Sulawesi," Rasubala said.