BLITAR (November 23, 2023) - Minister of Social Affairs Tri Rismaharini continues to tour several areas in East Java in conducting cataract sufferers. After Tulungagung, Malang, Social Affairs Minister Risma's footsteps were directed to Blitar Regency. Two hospitals become facilitators for the implementation of free cataract surgery, namely Ngudi Waluyo Hospital and Srengat Hospital, with the number of patients reaching 193, 115 at Ngudi Waluyo Hospital and 76 at Srengat Hospital.

The Minister said that the Ministry of Social Affairs' attention to cataract patients is based on the fact that many blind disabilities are caused by cataracts. This situation has an impact on the lives of sufferers who can lead to poverty.

"Based on information from PERDAMI, many visual disabilities are caused by cataracts. Therefore, we are trying to overcome this," said Social Affairs Minister Risma.

In the implementation of the free cataract surgery, Social Affairs Minister Risma also encouraged the patients, both those who would face surgery and post-operation.

"How is the condition, sir? Already had surgery. Hopefully, you will be healthy soon, sir," said Social Affairs Minister Risma to one of the patients at Ngudi Rahayu Hospital.

The patients felt happy and motivated. They feel they get attention from important officials in this country. There was even a patient from Bojonegoro who felt grateful to be able to get free cataract surgery services.

Appreciation was also conveyed specifically by Blitar Regent Rini Syarifah. The official who is usually called Mak Rini is very grateful to the Minister of Social Affairs. Rini admitted that many of her citizens were affected by cataracts. However, they cannot afford treatment while the budget from the local government is also limited.

"Alhamdulilah today the Ministry of Social Affairs is doing a very extraordinary thing, helping Blitar residents who suffer from cataracts with free surgery. This is very helpful for us in overcoming cataracts" said Regent Rini Syarifah.

Rini hopes that in the future the Ministry of Social Affairs can held free cataract surgery again in Blitar Regency. This is based on the condition that there are still many cataract sufferers who have not been helped.

"Once again we would like to thank the Minister of Social Affairs. Hopefully next year a similar program can be held again in our area," Rini concluded.