What a real pleasure listening Ainie speaking with so much passion and compassion on the Taveuni Eye Project which has been running for the past 12-13 years. In 2017 over 12 days, a total of 345 cataract surgeries were performed with patients coming all over from Fiji often on a ferry from Suva to Taveuni. What this project sets it apart from other eye surgery projects is holistic model of care from village tom hospital. The wrap around service includes transportation, travel costs and all medical and associated supported such as meals and accommodation. Four surgeons and nurses from around the globe from USA, Argentina, Australia and NZ provide the service. A next door neighbour of Geoff Amos is one of the volunteer drivers who meets and greets the patients off the ferry in one of the two mini vans donated by Kamal’s Island tours. Ainie talked about a woman who was totally blind and another two women who were incredibly frightened and couldn't be persuaded to have surgery. Ainie said there are so many special people such as Tim Way supplier of ophthalmic equipment based on the North Shore. The surgeons work a 10 hour day commencing surgery at 8:00 in the morning and wrapping up at about 4:30pm in the afternoon. And yes Ainie – women of many talents – was in OR! On Saturday 12 children had surgery and some required oxygen support using the two available oxygenators. Of note, Ainie said there are 34 clubs in our district and if every club contributed or make a donation then we meet the target a lot easier.
It took a big idea together to help improve their lives - Ainie truly gave a moving and life changing account of her time with the people in Taveuni.