A Journey of Compassion: Bringing Sight Back to the People of Cambodia
By Emi Callaway, Registered Nurse – Windsor Private Hospital.
A dedicated team of surgeons and nurses from Australia, many from Manningham, Windsor and Vermont Private Hospitals, recently embarked on a life-changing mission to Cambodia. Over five and a half days, we performed 437 cataract surgeries and addressed pterygium cases, bringing light back to the lives of so many underprivileged individuals.
It wasn’t easy, but it was profoundly rewarding. We brought all the necessary equipment from Australia, carefully packed to ensure we had enough, though resources were limited at times. We operated in two theatres—one with three operating tables. A team of three surgeons, three scrub nurses, two scout nurses, and interpreters were present to assist us in communicating with our patients.
Occasionally, local ophthalmologists, medical students, and visitors joined us to observe. Our day began at the crack of dawn. A 5 am wake-up call set the pace for a busy day. After a quick breakfast, we were on the bus by 7 am and at the hospital by 7:30 am to start preparing. While the team set up the theatres, the surgeons made rounds to check on post-op patients from the day before. By 8 am, the first patients walked into surgery.
One of the most striking things about our time in Cambodia was the resilience and cooperation of the patients. Despite only receiving local anaesthesia (no sedation), they remained incredibly calm and still throughout the procedures. Their strength and courage in such difficult circumstances left a lasting impact on all of us.
The teamwork between surgeons and nurses was inspiring. Often, we hadn’t worked together before, but it was like we became partners for the day—quickly learning preferences, adjusting to the limited instruments and consumables, and knowing when someone needed a break. By the end of each day, the bond between us grew stronger.
We worked hard to maintain the flow between both theatres, coordinating lunch breaks so we never had to stop both theatres at the same time. The environment was vastly different from back home, and yet, every member of the team remained flexible, cooperative, and incredibly professional.
This experience opened our eyes—not just to the extraordinary skill, technique, and knowledge of the surgeons and nurses, but also to the humility and calm demeanour of the patients who faced incredible hardship with grace. It was also heartening to see surgeons share advice and support each other during surgeries, always striving for the best possible outcome.
Outside of the operating room, we took part in humanitarian efforts, travelling to remote villages to distribute food, water filters, sunglasses, and medication. Our dental team provided treatment to disabled and disadvantaged children at the local dental university.
We also took the time to educate local doctors and medical students in ophthalmology, dentistry, general practice, and pharmacy. Passing on knowledge is just as important as the immediate care we provide—it’s an investment in the future of healthcare in Cambodia.
This mission was an unforgettable experience that strengthened our bonds as professionals and human beings. Together, we not only restored sight but hope for a brighter future.
Many thanks to the following doctors who operate at Manningham, Windsor, and Vermont Private Hospitals: Dr. Troy Lim Joon, Dr. Kevin Foo, Dr. Trevor Gin, Dr. Li Ping Chow, Dr. Michael Shiu, Dr. Lance Liu, Dr. Malvika Gupta, and Nurse Monet Hooper.
#HealthcareHeroes #CambodiaMission #HumanitarianAid #Teamwork #ChangingLives #AustralianHealthcare