Rajasthan Farmer Regains Vision After 35 Years Through Rare Surgery
Akbar Kathat Sees Grandson for First Time via Video Call
Akbar Kathat, a 61-year-old farmer from Pali district, Rajasthan, has regained his sight after being blind for 35 years due to chronic uveitis. Thanks to a rare and complex surgery performed at JLN Hospital, Ajmer, Akbar can now see again, including his one-year-old grandson for the very first time during a video call with his son living in Thailand.
A Challenging Case That Many Avoided
Akbar lost his vision in his youth after a sudden sneeze while working in his fields. Despite consulting several doctors, none were willing to operate on his eyes because the case was considered extremely difficult. This prolonged blindness also led to him missing out on a railway job after failing the medical exam.
Expert Medical Care at JLN Hospital
His daughter-in-law brought him to JLN Hospital, where ophthalmologist Dr. Ankur conducted initial examinations and admitted him for observation. Over the course of a month, Akbar underwent various tests before the surgery received approval from the Principal of JLN Medical College.
The successful surgery, led by Dr. Rakesh Porwal, head of the Ophthalmology Department, lasted one hour and restored vision in both eyes. Dr. Porwal stated that Akbar currently has vision up to three meters, with expectations for further improvement.
A Life-Changing Moment
The operation has not only restored Akbar’s eyesight but also given him the priceless joy of seeing his grandson and reconnecting with family abroad after decades of blindness.