Lesotho

Lesotho is a kingdom in southernmost Africa; the whole country is mountainous with plateaus from 1000 m to 3500 m above sea level. We have visited the country twice, the capital, Queen Elizabeth Hospital and Roma St. Joseph Hospital. The country is characterized by poor hospital coverage and prevention, so HIV, TB and hepatitis are widespread.

So many people came to our mission with all kinds of eye diseases, which is why we had to spend a lot of effort on general eye examinations. The ophthalmologists had to examine over 1000 patients in the short time we were there, in addition to all the patients who were operated on. And 600 pairs of glasses collected from home were handed out.

Our basic tests of blood pressure, hepatitis and HIV were essential to ensure that we do not contribute to further infection and spread. And some could be put on treatment for their disease after our screening. When we came to the ward the day after surgery, there was singing and dancing to thank us for our efforts.