Transforming Lives: The Story of Mr. Sulemana Alhassan
![](https://ncehgh.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Sulemana-767x1024.jpg)
The Northern Community Eye Hospital has been making significant strides in restoring sight to the people of Janga. Recently, the hospital’s dedicated screening team assessed a total of 278 individuals, identifying 54 patients in need of cataract surgery, including 28 bilateral cases. These comprehensive screenings were crucial in pinpointing those whose vision had been compromised, some of whom had been living in darkness for 1, 2, 3, or even more years.
On the 4th and 5th of May, the hospital successfully performed cataract surgeries on all 54 patients, effectively restoring their sight. The surgeries marked a profound transformation for these individuals, many of whom had faced significant challenges due to their impaired vision. The joy and relief experienced by the patients and their families were immeasurable, as the ability to see clearly once again opened up new possibilities and improved their quality of life.
The Northern Community Eye Hospital remains steadfast in its mission to provide essential eye care services to underserved communities, continually demonstrating that sight is not just a privilege but a fundamental right. Through their tireless efforts, NCEH is truly making a difference, one surgery at a time.
NCEH: Restoring Sight to the Less Privileged.
The inspiring story of Mma Alhassan-Sana from Kumbungu highlights the life-changing impact of the Northern Community Eye Hospital’s outreach intervention. Mma Alhassan-Sana had been living in complete darkness, blind in both eyes, which severely impacted her quality of life and independence. Her daily existence was filled with immense challenges, relying heavily on the assistance of family and friends for even the simplest of tasks.
However, her life took a remarkable turn when she became a beneficiary of the Northern Community Eye Hospital’s outreach program. The dedicated medical team at the hospital identified her condition and scheduled her for surgery. Through their expert care and advanced surgical techniques, Mma Alhassan-Sana’s sight was successfully restored.
The moment she opened her eyes and saw the world clearly for the first time in years was nothing short of miraculous. Her joy and gratitude knew no bounds, as she could now resume activities she once thought were lost forever. The ability to see her loved ones, navigate her surroundings independently, and engage fully in her community brought a renewed sense of hope and purpose to her life.
Mma Alhassan-Sana’s story is a testament to the profound difference that the Northern Community Eye Hospital is making in the lives of those they serve. By providing critical eye care services to the underserved, they are not only restoring sight but also transforming lives. At Northern Community Eye Hospital, we hold firmly to the belief that sight is life, and we are committed to bringing light and vision to those in need.
On May 7th, the Northern Community Eye Hospital conducted cataract surgeries for residents of Gurugu in the Sagnarigu municipality. Out of 72 individuals aged 40 and above who were screened, 14 were scheduled for surgery, and 13 underwent the procedure. Pre-surgery vision levels ranged from 6/60, CF@1-5, HM, to PL. Post-surgery, patients experienced significant improvements, with vision levels ranging from 6/60 to 6/18, PL to 6/18, and 6/12. The joy and excitement were indescribable. At Northern Community Eye Hospital, we believe sight is life.
In February, Northern Community Eye Hospital had the privilege of hosting Dr. Karl Holzinger, a highly experienced American ophthalmologist renowned for his dedication to eye care in developing nations. Over the course of two weeks, Dr. Holzinger actively engaged in patient consultations, conducted community screenings, and performed a remarkable total of 154 surgeries addressing cataracts and pterygium.
His expertise not only enriched our medical endeavors but also left a lasting impact on our community. Patients and staff alike were deeply moved by his compassionate approach and gentle demeanor, which made a significant difference in their experience.
We are deeply grateful to See International for their generous provision of essential surgical supplies, empowering Dr. Holzinger to carry out his vital work with effectiveness and impact. Their unwavering support has played a crucial role in our mission to elevate vision care and positively impact lives.
In January of 2024, Dr John Sandford-Smith spent 3 weeks in Tamale, in NCEH. This was his 5th time there. He came here from Burkina Faso where he spent a week in a new Eye Hospital South of Ougadougou training the staff. He spent most of his time in Tamale teaching our staff, seeing complicated patients and also training us in cataract surgery. He also held several lectures to the medical students of Uds (University of Developmental Studies) and trained them in basic eye care and in the use of the Arclight ophthalmoscope. He was instrumental in developing this low cost instrument for developing countries. He is 87 years old but still manages to be an extremely useful member of our African eye care community. He is a great example and a huge inspiration for Eye Care workers in Africa.
In November of 2022, Dr John Sandford-Smith spent 3 weeks in Tamale, in NCEH. This was his 4th time there. He took part in patient care and in surgeries but his main contribution was to train our staff. Thanks a million Dr John! You are an inspiration to all of us!