Eye care team visits Western

BAIMO villagers in Western were happy to hear a helicopter heading their way last week as Manolos Aviation flew in an ophthalmologist (eye surgeon) and a nurse to join the youth with a mission (YWAM) training and medical ship.
A local man, introducing himself as Steven, reported: “This is the first time we have seen a helicopter here in Bamio. It was an exciting day and we thank YWAM for coming.”
Manolos CEO and pilot Jurgen Roh landed the aircraft in a local elementary school ground.
“It was a long flight from Lae to the border of Gulf and Western.  The weather provided us some challenges but the mission was successfully completed,” Roh said.
“At Manolos Aviation, our team is committed to partnerships that assists the community so for us, assisting YWAM to build the right team here in a remote area is a good fit.
“It gives you a great deal of satisfaction as a pilot to know you are part of something as significant as restoring sight to people in such a remote place.”
YWAM Medical Ships’ PNG Partner Relations Manager Dr Sarah Dunn, was among those who welcomed Wewak General Hospital ophthalmology registrar Dr Dennis Likia, and scrub nurse Sr Josephine Kambu off the helicopter at Bamio.
“It is a great pleasure – and the result of years of preparation here in Bamu – to see an eye surgery outreach become a reality this week.  An opportunity for people with sight problems to regain their sight has finally arrived today,” Dunn said.
“The logistical support from Manolos Aviation, valued at more than K30,000, was the final step in bringing the surgical team together in this remote place.
“We are grateful to work with many passionate partners – the volunteers aboard the ship, government and business partners in PNG, Australia and the community.”