77 given ‘gift of sight’ in Candon medical mission

CANDON CITY, Ilocos Sur – It was some sort of a miracle for 77 people with defective vision were given the gift of sight as beneficiaries of a medical mission held in this city.

Five of the 77 beneficiaries of the successful eye medical mission cried, sang songs and praised the people behind the mission during the send-off party held at Vitalis Resort and Spa, Santiago, Ilocos Sur.

The third eye mission was sponsored by the Gift of Sight Foundation headed by Dr. Kenneth Westfield and Dr. Hon-Vu Duong, Rep. Eric Singson, Candon City Mayor Ericson Singson, City of Candon Hospital, Parañaque East Rotary Club, Manuel and Nieves Cariño, City Health Office and Southern Ilocos Sur Medical Society.

The four-day eye mission catered to patients in the second district of the province. There were successful 70 cataract and seven pterygium operations done.

The group of Dr. Westfield came practically with everything. They brought with them their equipment, gadgets, medicines and others.

Dr. Westfield expressed his deep appreciation to the hospitality and support extended to them during their stint.

Rep. Singson and City Administrator Grace Singson who played host during the party gave them gifts as gesture of appreciation of their works.

Mayor Singson said he hoped to have more eye missions. “Many were benefitted, many were cured, many were comforted but still long lists of our constituents continuously clamor for another staging in the next months. So even if this is supposed to be a send-off party we are readying again the red carpet for your welcome party on your return,” he said.

The city mayor who is a doctor said the “eye mission was fulfilling for our beloved constituents and beneficiaries. It was fulfilling as part of our public service duties. The eye medical mission allowed us to help our benefactors have the gift of sight.”

Dr. Westfield and his group were later toured around the city and tourist spots in the province. -- LBJ