Surgeon and his teenage daughter lead a 12-day volunteer expedition

Each year, the lives of elderly patients in developing countries are catastrophically impacted when they lose their sight. In Peru, indigent farmers who otherwise contribute to family and community become a burden as cataracts blind them.

This combination of poverty and subpar medical care, leads to a vast number of people that are disabled by cataracts, a condition that is easily correctible in the United States. Randy Burks, MD decided to help. Burks volunteers with the South Florida chapter of Surgical Eye Expeditions (SEE), a non-profit humanitarian organization based in Santa Barbara, CA. SEE asked Burks to lead a 12-day expedition to Huamachuco, Peru, to perform cataract surgery on indigent patients. He led a team (which included three other surgeons, his 17-year-old daughter Erica, and Karen, his surgical technician) to a remote village in the Andes mountains.  

“By performing modern cataract surgery – removing the cloudy natural lens and implanting a new clear lens – we are able to return vision to those who generally don’t even have access to basic medical care,” said Burks. “I’ve led 12 surgical missions to Central & South America in the past, to such places as Ecuador, El Salvador and Mexico. But having my daughter participate on this trip as a technician assisting the surgical team made it even more special. What an experience for her and for all of us!” said Burks.

The team completed 100 surgical procedures. After a quick recovery these patients return to work, becoming productive once again. Additionally, the surgeon’s taught local Peruvian doctors the techniques they need to help many more indigent patients throughout their country. Putting together the air transport of modern surgical instruments and equipment was a huge undertaking, requiring a cohesive surgical team and support personnel who gave their time selflessly. Local hospitals and national medical supply companies donated all equipment and supplies.