Surgery restores Antonio’s sight

Fifteen-year-old Antonio from Timor-Leste travelled to Sydney to undergo specialist surgery for the insertion of an aphakic intraocular lens in his right eye in January 2026.

An aphakic intraocular lens (IOL) is a surgical implant designed to correct aphakia, the absence of a natural crystalline lens due to cataract removal, trauma, or congenital defects. Without a lens, the eye is out of focus and vision is blurry.

Antonio first sustained trauma to his right eye in 2020 and received treatment in Dili. Sadly he experienced further injury to the same eye in 2024. 

Due to the severity and complexity of the damage, specialist advice was sought which found he required advanced ophthalmic care in Sydney.

Antonio was accepted for treatment by Dr Gaurav Bhardwaj from Retina and Eye Clinic New South Wales (pictured with Antonio) and successfully underwent surgery on Monday 12 January.

Air travel following eye surgery can pose risks due to changes in cabin pressure. As a precaution Antonio remained in Sydney for two weeks before receiving medical clearance to return home.

Antonio and his mother Ana were warmly supported by members of the Rotary family during their stay. They spent time with Rotarians Hannibal and Jenny Shabaz, enjoyed a weekend with ROMAC D9675 Chair Jenny Pedley and her husband Harold, and stayed for the remainder of their visit with ROMAC Eastern Region Chair Anita Robinson and her husband Rick.

They also appreciated visits from other Rotarians and members of the Timorese community. While in Sydney, they enjoyed several sightseeing experiences including a memorable trip to Manly (travelling by train, ferry and bus, visits to the Sydney Museum, a trip to Kiama to see the blowhole, and a day at Featherdale Wildlife Park.

Antonio and Ana returned home deeply grateful for the expert medical care received and for the kindness and generosity shown to them throughout their stay.

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