Timor-Leste
December 22, 2026

Fifteen-year-old Antonio from Timor-Leste is scheduled to arrive in Sydney

Antonio sustained a traumatic eye injury after being struck by a ball while playing football with friends.

Fifteen-year-old Antonio from Timor-Leste is scheduled to arrive in Sydney in early January to receive specialist treatment and surgery for his right eye.

Antonio sustained a traumatic eye injury after being struck by a ball while playing football with friends. Although he received immediate treatment in Timor-Leste, the intervention was unfortunately unsuccessful. Doctors in Dili contacted ROMAC to seek help to access further specialist care.

Antonio will travel to Australia with his mother, Ana, and will be under the care of ophthalmic surgeon Dr Gaurav Bhardwaj from the Retina and Eye Clinic NSW. Antonio will need to remain in Australia for about two weeks after surgery.

Antonio and Ana will be kindly hosted by several Rotary families. Eastern Region Chair Anita Robinson will initially support Antonio through his surgery, after which they will enjoy the hospitality of other generous Rotary families.

I am sincerely grateful for the wonderful support extended to Antonio and his family, which will make his life changing treatment possible.

Anita Robinson

ROMAC Eastern Region Chair

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