74 individuals with cataracts get eye screening through GMA Kapuso Foundation, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation

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A total of 74 individuals with cataracts underwent eye screening in preparation for eye surgery through the help of GMA Kapuso Foundation and its partner, the Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation Philippines. 

According to "24 Oras" Wednesday, the cataract screening was held in observance of Sight Saving Month this August. Among the beneficiaries of the initiative is 53-year-old Danilo Villagracia, who was born with cataracts in both eyes. 

His four children, Harvey, Iris, May, and Dindin, also have congenital cataracts. Despite their condition, the siblings are achievers in school and excel in track and field competitions. 

"Lahat po sila ay achiever at natutuwa po kami kasi sa kabila ng kanilang mga disabilities ay nakita namin kung saan sila mag-e-excel," said Emmalyn C. Bautista, SPED Teacher I at the Virgilio B. Melendrez Elementary School. 

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. 

"Ang ating eye surgery project in particular para sa mga katarata. Ito ay para sa mga seniors at tsaka sa mga minors 14 years old pababa," said GMA Kapuso Foundation EVP and COO Rikki Escudero-Catibog. 

Per Tzu Chi Medical Foundation President Dr. Antonio Say, their organization covers all aspects of eye care, including cataracts, which are the most common. 

Tzu Chi Medical Foundation pediatrician ophthalmologist Dr. Catherine Macaraig, who examined Danilo and his children, said, "Three out of five, and another sibling have bilateral cataracts, so we're going to surgically remove the cataracts." 

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.

—CDC, GMA Integrated News