Chamba teen sees the world for first time

In a remarkable medical breakthrough, a 15-year-old boy from Himgiri—a remote village located 80 km beyond Chamba on the Salooni road—has regained his eyesight after undergoing two successful cataract surgeries at Zonal Hospital, Dharamsala. The case marks a significant first for the hospital and a milestone in public healthcare in the region.

Piyush, who was born with zonular cataract and nystagmus, had spent his life in near-total blindness. He had no clarity of vision and could barely count fingers held close to his face. When he arrived at the hospital on January 25, hopes were limited, but his life was about to change.

Dr Shailender Minhas, Senior Ophthalmologist and Head of Department, led the case with extraordinary precision. The right eye was operated on first and the results were promising enough for Piyush to appear for his Class 10 board exams in March with renewed confidence. Encouraged by the outcome, the second surgery on his left eye was performed in July.

Both surgeries involved the implantation of specially ordered 7 configuration intraocular lenses, placed in the sulcus without any vitreous loss—a complex process due to the congenital nature of the condition. The procedures, though only 20 minutes each, required meticulous planning and execution.

Following surgery, Piyush’s unaided vision has improved dramatically—he can now see up to 15 feet. More importantly, the surgeries were done entirely free of cost.

“This is a proud moment for our hospital,” said Dr Anuradha Sharma, Senior Medical Superintendent. “From near-blindness to walking out with sight—Piyush’s journey is a testament to the skill and compassion of our team.”

An emotional Piyush, with a smile, said, “For the first time, I can clearly see the world. I will be forever grateful.” His father, Khem Singh, who accompanied him through every step, expressed deep gratitude to the doctors and hospital staff for their relentless efforts and humane care.