Surgitrac Instruments UK is proud to sponsor the Andean Medical Mission (AMM). In this article, we will highlight some of their successful missions in 2024.
2024 has been a remarkable year for AMM as they have worked tirelessly to eliminate avoidable blindness and transform lives in Northern Bolivia. From successful surgical trips to impactful projects, AMM has made significant strides in providing essential eye care.
Surgical Trips: Transforming Lives
This year, AMM delivered two high-quality surgical trips. In Magdalena, they completed 74 surgeries in just one week, including cataract surgeries and minor operations, thanks to their efficient team and improved surgical setup. The team then moved to Santa Ana, where 51 surgeries were performed, including 4 on children as young as 2 years old. Notable moments included Gatito, a patient with Down’s Syndrome, who regained his ability to walk independently after cataract surgery.
Expanding Reach: Collaborations and Capacity Building
In San Ignacio, AMM carried out over 50 surgeries, including advanced cataract procedures, before moving to San Borja, where they supported Dr. Fernando Fernandez in performing 40 surgeries. Their work with Solidad Medica, a Spanish NGO, allowed them to treat the Tsimani people along the river Maniqui, further extending their impact.
Key Projects: Screening and Glaucoma Detection
AMM launched two long-term projects this year: screening children for amblyopia and identifying adults at risk of open-angle glaucoma. These initiatives aim to detect issues early and prevent blindness through early treatment.
24/7 Helpline: Lifeline for Remote Areas
Their helpline for village doctors continues to be a crucial resource, providing 24/7 support for managing eye emergencies. This service has saved many patients from permanent blindness by offering expert guidance and treatment plans.
Vaccination River Trips: A Step Forward
While low rainfall in the Amazon affected some of their vaccination trips, they successfully immunised villages against measles, polio, and German Measles and plan to expand these efforts in 2025.
Looking Ahead to 2025
Thanks to your continued support, AMM is poised to expand their surgical missions, screening programmes, and collaborative projects in 2025, helping to change even more lives through the power of sight.
Support
AMM is always seeking medical volunteers, fundraising support, or donations of medical equipment and surgical consumables. They rely heavily on the generosity of their supporters, particularly those who make regular monthly donations. This ongoing support enables them to plan long-term projects effectively.
If you would like to support the work of the Andean Medical Mission in Bolivia, please feel free to contact Dave Goldsmith or make a donation via the link below:
Dave Goldsmith RSCi
General Manager, Andean Medical Mission
Email: dave@andeanmedicalmission.co.uk
WhatsApp: +591 67358221
Website: www.andeanmedicalmission.co.uk
