The Path of Light for Sukir and Sumirah

Journalist : Yanuar Sapto R. (Tzu Chi Cabang Sinar Mas), Photographer : Yanuar Sapto R. (Tzu Chi Cabang Sinar Mas)

Sukir underwent an initial examination prior to surgery.

Sukir (74) and Sumirah (59) are a married couple who live in Wanatirta Village, Batu Ampar, Seruyan, Central Kalimantan. They work as farmers every day. With age their vision is impaired. This condition certainly interferes with their activities in the fields, especially when the sun is scorching. They have long hoped for someone to help, considering their poor economic condition. They reported this to the local village head. From here, Sukir and Sumirah then met with Tzu Chi volunteers from Sinar Mas Branch Xie Li, Central Kalimantan 4. Not long ago, volunteers visited Sukir and Sumirah's residence to conduct a survey.

Before surgery, an eye examination was conducted for Sumirah who has pterygium.

After passing several stages of requirements, on Thursday, October 28, 2021, Sukir and his wife underwent surgery. Based on the doctor's diagnosis, Sukir suffers from cataracts, while Sumirah suffers from pterygium. Accompanied by 3 volunteers, including dr. Gerry Juliansyah as the plantation doctor, the operation was carried out at the eye clinic of dr. Agus Ariyanto Pangkalan Bun, Central Kalimantan. The operation took place from 15.00 - 21.00 WIB. Dr. Agus Ariyanto has become Xie Li’s (Tzu Chi volunteer) referral for cataract surgery in Central Kalimantan 4. Despite tired, the volunteers and doctors were grateful that the operation went well.

“Alhamdulillah. I also thank all the volunteers who helped my wife and I with the eye surgery. May the volunteers be given ease and health,” said Sukir happily.

Volunteers accompanied Sumirah during the initial eye inspection.

Not only those who were helped, a sense of happiness also came to the hearts of the volunteers. As felt by Yanuar Sapto Rahardian, one of the volunteers who accompanied him. "We are certainly happy with the completion of this operation which went well and smoothly. We are very grateful for the opportunity to help this husband-and-wife couple who depend solely on their income from farming. With the help from Tzu Chi, they can farm optimally for better harvest, “said Yanuar.

Sukir underwent a vision test conducted by the postoperative medical team.

There is nothing happier than seeing other people feel the joy for what we have done. Instantly the sweats and fatigue of the volunteers who had been waiting since morning disappeared as they knew the operation was a success and the patients overcame with happiness.

Translator: Vissia Budi Apriliana, Sweete (Tzu Chi School)