It’s an inevitable and ugly universal truth that we all grow and have some flaws in our vision for the future. But it was different for Kenith Elijado, an 8-year-old child born with congenital cataracts.
Can you imagine spending most of your childhood without seeing what most kids see?
He was diagnosed with the said condition during the Health Care Mission of the MJB Cares Foundation in Libertad, Misamis Oriental, last September 2022. Considering his age, the limited medical instruments, and the nature of the operation he needs; it was concluded that it would be risky to conduct the surgery at the time. Upon deliberation, everyone has agreed that he should be brought to Cebu for a more thorough assessment and foolproof surgery.
The said operation was a collaborative effort of the following organizations: Mindanao Humanitarian Volunteers for Peace, MJB Cares Foundation, Eye Hear Foundation, Mabuhay Deseret, and Budjong Integrated Humanitarian Missions.
On November 30, 2022, he underwent various laboratory tests and a pediatrician consultation. After that, he was admitted to Mendero Medical Center for a day to await his surgery.
Kenith’s cataract operation was performed by Dr. Maria Theresa “Doc Tess” Villaluz-Heyrosa, MD, President of Mindanao Humanitarian Volunteers for Peace and Founder of Budjong Health Missions, on December 2, 2022. The day after, a post-surgery examination was conducted. The results were promising, and it was concluded that the surgery was indeed successful.
Our little Kenith was accompanied by his father, Mr. Roque Elijado, a humble farmer who was thrilled to know that his child could finally see clearly. The operating team has witnessed how a parent’s joy is contingent only on their child’s wellbeing. The idea that a parent would want nothing more than to see their child succeed and have good health. His heart was bursting with immeasurable amounts of happiness and gratitude.
We owe a huge thank you to all organizations, volunteers, donors, and the people who prayed for the success of his Congenital Cataract Operation. You were all an instrument from which Kenith drew strength and courage. Our brave little warrior, Kenith Elijado fought valiantly with his adversity. He has been a fighter and will continue to fight for his family and his future.
A clearer vision, a clearer future.